The Australian Shipowners Association (ASA) informs it has urged the Abbott Government to be careful in its consideration of the Productivity Commission Report into Tasmanian shipping and freight, as there are still concerns about any recommendation to deregulate access to coastal shipping services. ASA explain that the retention of the Tasmanian Freight and Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Schemes is a sensible decision that has been well received by ASA. But there are still concerns about any recommendation to deregulate access to coastal shipping services as this will result in the loss of strategic skills in the Australian maritime workforce. “Retaining the Equalisation Schemes recognises that Bass Strait is part of the national highway and is an appropriate fiscal policy.