PORT Phillip Sea Pilots say they are offering a 10% rebate for ships boarded on or after 13 April.
The rebate is to be applied to all outgoing invoices and is to be valid where terms and conditions are met and payment is made within 30 days.
The pilots are responsible for bringing in ships through Port Phillip Heads, on the way to Melbourne, and in recent years have faced competition from Australian Pilotage Group.
In a statement to customers, PPSP managing director Captain Mike Hanson indicated the decision came following widespread consultation.
“Over recent months the board and management of PPSP have conducted a large number of meetings with our customers and agents,” Captain Hanson said.
“We highlighted the value it is believed we offer…
“Port Phillip Sea Pilots resolved not to increase rates for the upcoming financial year commencing July 2020. This means that PPSP will not have raised rates since July 2018.”
Captain Hanson said PPSP would like to “take this opportunity to reassure you that we have undertaken significant business continuity planning to ensure we are able to continue to guarantee our on-demand service during this crisis”.
“We have conducted desktop drills to understand the risks, including drills of contact tracing and quarantining activities should the virus impact the business directly,” Captain Hanson said.
“We continue to review our policies and procedures as circumstances require.
“In uncertain times like these the merchant navy and pilotage services Australia-wide have always stood ready to ensure essential shipping trade is maintained. “Port Phillip Sea Pilots pride ourselves in the part we play as professional and proactive partners.”
