explains Rachel Fadel, Head of Government and Industry Affairs at ALC. “We are here to improve the safety, productivity, efficiency, resilience, and sustainability of Australia’s supply chains. Everything we do is framed around those five pillars.” A SEAT AT THE TABLE ALC operates as both a membership-based industry body and a trusted partner to government. The council includes a board of 23 members who determine its strategic direction, while associate members contribute to key conversations. ALC’s role is to advocate for what is best for the national economy, even when that means putting commercial interests aside. “Freight is too important to be fragmented,” notes Policy Officer, Sam Karami. “Our members may compete commercially, but when it comes to national infrastructure and workforce challenges, collaboration is essential.” To drive this collaboration, ALC convenes quarterly meetings that allow members to focus on specific elements of strategic direction, such as rail infrastructure or port access. It also organizes roundtables, summits, and annual awards ceremonies to address challenges and recognize industry leadership. The upcoming ALC Summit carries the theme “Australia’s supply chains under pressure: solutions for a resilient future.” Sessions will explore the impact of economic, geopolitical, environmental, and workforce pressures — and highlight strategies to ensure the nation’s supply chain remains robust and competitive. ADVOCACY AND NATIONAL STRATEGY One of ALC’s most significant contributions has been its role in shaping the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, a federal initiative designed to guide the industry’s long-term growth. “ALC worked very closely with the Department of Infrastructure to develop the strategy,” Fadel says. “It has clear actions, measurable KPIs, and a commitment to improving the last iteration. It is a strong example of government and industry coming together to achieve meaningful outcomes.” Ongoing advocacy efforts focus on ensuring freight infrastructure is recognized as critical national infrastructure. ALC is also monitoring shifts in industrial land policy, particularly with responsibility moving from the Department of Infrastructure to Treasury. “Our concern is that prioritization will lean too heavily toward housing at the expense of freight,” Fadel warns. “Industrial land availability is fundamental to efficient supply chains, and that cannot be overlooked.” 127 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 08 AUSTRALIAN LOGISTIC COUNCIL
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