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Competition and Consumer Act 2010

Authoritative Version
  • - C2012C00490
  • In force - Superseded Version
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Act No. 51 of 1974 as amended, taking into account amendments up to Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Universal Service Reform) Act 2012
An Act relating to competition, fair trading and consumer protection, and for other purposes
Administered by: Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education; Infrastructure and Transport; Treasury; Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
General Comments: This compilation is affected by a retrospective amendment, please see Statute Law Revision Act 2012 [Act No. 136 of 2012], for details.
Registered 13 Jun 2012
Start Date 06 Jun 2012
End Date 30 Jun 2012
Table of contents.

Competition and Consumer Act 2010

Act No. 51 of 1974 as amended

This compilation was prepared on 6 June 2012
taking into account amendments up to Act No. 44 of 2012

Volume 2 includes:    Table of Contents
                                    Sections 10.01 – 179

The text of any of those amendments not in force
on that date is appended in the Notes section

The operation of amendments that have been incorporated may be
affected by application provisions that are set out in the Notes section

  

  

  


Contents

Part X—International liner cargo shipping                                                           1

Division 1—Preliminary                                                                                              1

10.01..... Objects of Part.................................................................................... 1

10.01A.. Simplified outline................................................................................ 2

10.02..... Interpretation....................................................................................... 3

10.02A.. Inland terminals................................................................................. 10

10.03..... Designated shipper bodies................................................................ 11

Division 2—Additional restrictive trade practice provisions applying to ocean carriers           13

10.04..... Application of section 46 in relation to conference agreements......... 13

Division 3—Minimum standards for conference agreements               14

10.06..... Application of Australian law to outwards conference agreements and withdrawal from agreements      14

10.07..... Minimum levels of shipping services to be specified in conference agreements       14

10.08..... Conference agreements may include only certain restrictive trade practice provisions              14

10.09..... Where may consequences of conference agreements not complying with minimum standards be found?               16

Division 4—Registers and files and public inspection of them              17

10.10..... Registers and conference agreement files open to public inspection.. 17

10.11..... What registers are to be kept by the Registrar?.................................. 17

10.12..... What conference agreement files are to be kept by the Registrar?..... 17

10.13..... What register is to be kept by the Commission?................................ 18

Division 5—Exemptions from certain restrictive trade practice prohibitions   19

Subdivision A—Exemptions relating to conference agreements                 19

10.14..... Exemptions apply only to certain activities........................................ 19

10.15..... When do exemptions commence to apply in relation to registered conference agreements?     19

10.16..... Exemptions do not apply to variations of conference agreement unless varying agreement registered     20

10.17..... Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK and 45               20

10.17A.. Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK and 45 for freight rate agreements    21

10.18..... Exemption from section 47............................................................... 22

10.18A.. Exemptions from section 47 for freight rate agreements................... 22

Subdivision B—Exemptions relating to loyalty agreements                        23

10.19..... Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK and 45               23

10.20..... Exemption from section 47............................................................... 23

10.21..... Exemptions cease to apply in relation to a shipper at the shipper’s option                24

Subdivision D—Other exemptions                                                                       24

10.24..... Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK, 45 and 47 in relation to certain negotiations     24

10.24A.. Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK, 45 and 47 in relation to stevedoring contracts  25

Division 6—Registration of conference agreements                                  26

Subdivision A—Provisional registration                                                           26

10.25..... Application for provisional registration of conference agreement..... 26

10.26..... How application is to be made and verified....................................... 26

10.27..... Copy of agreement to be filed with application etc............................ 26

10.27A.. Copy of conference agreement to be given to designated peak shipper body           27

10.28..... Decision on application for provisional registration.......................... 28

10.29..... Parties to conference agreement to negotiate minimum level of shipping services after provisional registration of agreement.......................................................................................... 29

Subdivision B—Final registration                                                                       31

10.30..... Application for final registration of conference agreement................ 31

10.31..... How application is to be made and verified....................................... 31

10.32..... Copy of agreement to be filed with application etc............................ 32

10.33..... Decision on application for final registration..................................... 32

Subdivision C—Confidentiality requests                                                           34

10.34..... Request for confidentiality................................................................ 34

10.35..... Abstract to accompany request for confidentiality............................. 34

10.36..... Examination of abstract..................................................................... 34

10.37..... Decision on request for confidentiality.............................................. 35

10.38..... Application for registration to be returned where request for confidentiality refused etc.         36

Subdivision D—Miscellaneous                                                                              36

10.39..... Application also to be made for registration of varying conference agreements       36

10.40..... Notification of happening of affecting events prior to final registration etc.             37

Division 7—Obligations of ocean carriers in relation to registered conference agreements    39

10.41..... Parties to registered conference agreement to negotiate with certain designated shipper bodies etc.         39

10.42..... Application to be made for registration of varying conference agreements               41

10.43..... Parties to registered conference agreement to notify happening of affecting events etc.           41

Division 8—Powers of Minister in relation to registered conference agreements           43

10.44..... Powers exercisable by Minister in relation to registered conference agreements etc.                43

10.45..... Circumstances in which Minister may exercise powers in relation to registered conference agreements  44

10.46..... Action to be taken where powers exercised by Minister without first obtaining Commission report       47

10.47..... Investigation and report by Commission on reference by Minister... 48

10.48..... Investigation and report by Commission on own initiative or on application by affected person             49

10.49..... Undertakings by parties to registered conference agreement............. 50

10.49A.. Enforcement of undertakings............................................................ 51

Division 9—Obligations of non‑conference ocean carriers with substantial market power      52

10.50..... Investigations by Commission into market power of ocean carriers. 52

10.51..... Determination by Minister of market power of ocean carriers.......... 52

10.52..... Non‑conference ocean carrier with substantial market power to negotiate with certain designated shipper bodies etc........................................................................................................... 53

10.53..... Non‑conference ocean carrier with substantial market power not to hinder Australian flag shipping operators etc. 55

Division 10—Powers of Minister in relation to non‑conference ocean carriers with substantial market power                                                                                                        56

10.54..... Powers exercisable by Minister in relation to obligations of non‑conference ocean carriers with substantial market power.......................................................................................................... 56

10.55..... Circumstances in which Minister may exercise powers.................... 56

10.56..... Action to be taken where powers exercised by Minister without first obtaining Commission report       57

10.57..... Investigation and report by Commission on reference by Minister... 58

10.58..... Investigation and report by Commission on application by affected person             58

10.59..... Undertakings by ocean carrier........................................................... 59

10.60..... Enforcement of orders and undertakings........................................... 59

Division 11—Unfair pricing practices                                                               61

10.61..... Powers exercisable by Minister in relation to pricing practices etc.... 61

10.62..... Circumstances in which Minister may exercise powers.................... 61

10.63..... Investigation and report by Commission........................................... 62

10.64..... Undertakings not to engage in pricing practices................................ 62

10.65..... Enforcement of orders and undertakings........................................... 63

10.66..... Determination of normal freight rates for shipping services.............. 63

10.67..... Determination of whether practice contrary to national interest......... 64

Division 12—Registration of ocean carrier agents                                    65

10.68..... Ocean carrier who provides international liner cargo shipping services to have registered agent             65

10.69..... Representation of ocean carrier by registered agent........................... 65

10.70..... Application by ocean carrier for registration of agent........................ 66

10.71..... Registration of agent......................................................................... 66

10.72..... Change of agent etc........................................................................... 66

Division 12A—Exemption orders for inwards conference agreements etc.        68

10.72A.. Exemption orders for inwards conference agreements etc................. 68

10.72B.. Criteria for making exemption order................................................. 68

10.72C.. Duration of exemption order may be limited..................................... 69

10.72D.. Conditions of exemption order.......................................................... 69

Division 13—General provisions relating to registers and conference agreement files               70

10.73..... Form of registers and conference agreement files............................. 70

10.74..... Deletion of entries wrongly existing in certain registers.................... 70

10.75..... Deletion of obsolete entries in certain registers................................. 70

10.76..... Correction of clerical errors and other mistakes in certain registers etc. 70

Division 14—Administration                                                                                  71

10.77..... Registrar of Liner Shipping............................................................... 71

10.78..... Appointment of Registrar etc............................................................ 71

10.79..... Acting Registrar................................................................................ 71

10.80..... Registrar and staff to be public servants............................................ 71

10.81..... Delegation by Minister...................................................................... 71

10.82..... Delegation by Registrar..................................................................... 71

Division 14A—Review of decisions of Commission                                    72

10.82A.. Review by Tribunal........................................................................... 72

10.82B.. Functions and powers of Tribunal.................................................... 72

10.82C.. Provisions that do not apply in relation to a Tribunal review............ 73

Division 14B—Review of decisions of Minister                                            74

10.82D.. Review by Tribunal........................................................................... 74

10.82E... Functions and powers of Tribunal.................................................... 75

10.82F... Modifying register after Tribunal review.......................................... 75

10.82G.. Provisions that do not apply in relation to a Tribunal review............ 76

Division 15—Miscellaneous                                                                                     77

10.83..... Act not to affect rights under Freedom of Information Act............... 77

10.84..... Review of decisions of Registrar...................................................... 77

10.85..... Statement to accompany notices of Registrar.................................... 77

10.86..... Evidence............................................................................................ 78

10.87..... Notification by Commission of references etc................................... 78

10.88..... Exclusion of documents etc. from register of Commission investigations                78

10.89..... Disclosure of confidential information.............................................. 80

10.90..... Fees................................................................................................... 81

10.91..... Application of Part XID and section 155 to investigations under Part 82

Part XI—Application of the Australian Consumer Law as a law of the Commonwealth            83

Division 1—Preliminary                                                                                            83

130........ Definitions........................................................................................ 83

130A..... Expressions defined in Schedule 2.................................................... 85

Division 2—Application of the Australian Consumer Law as a law of the Commonwealth      86

Subdivision A—Application of the Australian Consumer Law                    86

131........ Application of the Australian Consumer Law in relation to corporations etc.           86

131A..... Division does not apply to financial services.................................... 86

131B..... Division does not apply to interim bans imposed by State or Territory Ministers    87

131C..... Saving of other laws and remedies.................................................... 87

Subdivision B—Effect of other Commonwealth laws on the Australian Consumer Law            88

131D..... Effect of Part VIB on Chapter 5 of the Australian Consumer Law... 88

131E...... Application of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003......................... 88

131F...... Section 4AB of the Crimes Act does not apply................................. 89

131G..... Application of the Criminal Code..................................................... 89

Division 3—Conferences for proposed bans and recall notices           91

Subdivision A—Conference requirements before a ban or compulsory recall              91

132........ Commonwealth Minister must issue a proposed ban notice.............. 91

132A..... Commonwealth Minister must issue a proposed recall notice........... 92

132B..... Commonwealth Minister to be notified if no person wishes a conference to be held               92

132C..... Notification of conference................................................................. 93

132D..... Recommendation after conclusion of conference.............................. 93

Subdivision B—Conference requirements after an interim ban is imposed 94

132E...... Opportunity for a conference after an interim ban has been imposed by the Commonwealth Minister    94

132F...... Notification of conference................................................................. 95

132G..... Recommendation after conclusion of conference.............................. 95

Subdivision C—Conduct of conferences                                                            96

132H..... Conduct of conferences..................................................................... 96

Subdivision D—Miscellaneous                                                                              97

132J...... Interim ban and recall notice without delay in case of danger to the public               97

132K..... Copy of notices under this Division to be given to suppliers............ 97

Division 4—Enforcement                                                                                          99

Subdivision A—Inspectors                                                                                     99

133........ Appointment of inspectors................................................................ 99

133A..... Identity cards..................................................................................... 99

Subdivision B—Premises to which the public is given access                     100

133B..... Power to enter premises to which the public has access—consumer goods             100

133C..... Power to enter premises to which the public has access—product related services  101

Subdivision C—Disclosure notices relating to the safety of goods or services               101

133D..... Power to obtain information etc...................................................... 101

133E...... Self‑incrimination............................................................................ 103

133F...... Compliance with disclosure notices................................................ 103

133G..... False or misleading information etc................................................. 104

Subdivision D—Court orders relating to the destruction etc. of goods    104

133H..... Court orders relating to consumer goods that do not comply with a safety standard etc.          104

133J...... Recovery of reasonable costs of seizing, and destroying or disposing of, consumer goods     105

Division 5—Infringement notices                                                                       106

134........ Purpose and effect of this Division................................................. 106

134A..... Issuing an infringement notice........................................................ 106

134B..... Matters to be included in an infringement notice............................. 107

134C..... Amount of penalty.......................................................................... 108

134D..... Effect of compliance with an infringement notice............................ 111

134E...... Effect of failure to comply with an infringement notice................... 112

134F...... Infringement notice compliance period for infringement notice....... 112

134G..... Withdrawal of an infringement notice............................................. 113

Division 6—Search, seizure and entry                                                            115

Subdivision A—Powers of inspectors                                                                115

135........ Inspector may enter premises.......................................................... 115

135A..... Search‑related powers of inspectors................................................ 116

135B..... Inspector may ask questions and seek production of documents.... 117

135C..... Failure to answer questions or produce documents......................... 118

135D..... Persons assisting inspectors............................................................ 119

135E...... Use of force in executing a search warrant...................................... 119

135F...... Announcement before entry under warrant..................................... 119

135G..... Inspector must be in possession of search warrant......................... 120

Subdivision B—Obligations of inspectors                                                       120

135H..... Consent........................................................................................... 120

135J...... Details of search warrant etc. must be given to the occupier of the premises            121

Subdivision C—Occupier’s etc. rights and responsibilities                         121

135K..... Occupier etc. entitled to observe execution of search warrant......... 121

135L...... Occupier etc. to provide inspector etc. with facilities and assistance 122

135M.... Receipts for seized consumer goods and equipment....................... 122

135N..... Return of seized consumer goods and equipment........................... 122

135P...... Judge may permit consumer goods or equipment to be retained..... 123

Subdivision D—Provisions relating to seizure                                               124

135Q..... Recovery of reasonable costs of seizing consumer goods or equipment  124

135R..... Destruction or disposal of seized consumer goods or equipment.... 124

Subdivision E—Embargo notices                                                                      125

135S...... Embargo notices.............................................................................. 125

135T...... Embargo period for embargo notices.............................................. 127

135U..... Multiple embargo notices for the same consumer goods or product related services                127

135V..... Power of inspectors to secure consumer goods.............................. 128

135W.... Power of inspectors to secure equipment used to supply product related services   128

135X..... Consent to supply etc. embargoed consumer goods etc.................. 128

135Y..... Compliance with embargo notices................................................... 129

Subdivision F—Issue of search warrants                                                         130

135Z...... Issue of search warrants.................................................................. 130

136........ Search warrants by telephone, fax etc............................................. 131

136A..... Offence relating to warrants by telephone, fax etc........................... 133

Subdivision G—Miscellaneous                                                                           133

136B..... Powers of judges............................................................................ 133

Division 7—Remedies                                                                                               135

137........ Limit on occupational liability......................................................... 135

137A..... Contributory acts or omissions to reduce compensation in defective goods actions 136

137B..... Reduction of the amount of loss or damage if the claimant fails to take reasonable care           137

137C..... Limits on recovery of amounts for death or personal injury............ 137

137D..... Compensation orders etc. arising out of unfair contract terms......... 138

137E...... Limits on compensation orders etc. for death or personal injury..... 138

137F...... Court may make orders for the purpose of preserving money or other property held by a person           140

137G..... Compliance with orders made under section 137F.......................... 142

137H..... Finding in proceedings to be evidence............................................ 142

Division 8—Jurisdictional matters                                                                    144

138........ Conferring jurisdiction on the Federal Court................................... 144

138A..... Conferring jurisdiction on the Federal Magistrates Court............... 144

138B..... Conferring jurisdiction on State and Territory Courts..................... 144

138C..... Transfer of matters by the Federal Court......................................... 145

138D..... Transfer of matters by a State or Territory court............................. 146

138E...... Transfer of proceedings to Family Court........................................ 147

Division 9—Miscellaneous                                                                                     149

139........ Intervention by the Commission..................................................... 149

139A..... Terms excluding consumer guarantees from supplies of recreational services         149

139B..... Conduct of directors, employees or agents of bodies corporate...... 150

139C..... Conduct of employees or agents of persons other than bodies corporate 151

139D..... Enforcement and recovery of certain fines...................................... 152

139DA.. Application of section 229 of the Australian Consumer Law to a person other than a body corporate     153

139E...... Cessation of enforcement orders etc................................................ 153

139F...... Compensation for acquisition of property....................................... 154

139G..... Regulations..................................................................................... 155

Part XIAA—Application of the Australian Consumer Law as a law of a State or Territory    157

140........ Definitions...................................................................................... 157

140A..... Object of this Part........................................................................... 158

140B..... The applied Australian Consumer Law........................................... 158

140C..... Federal Court may exercise jurisdiction under application laws of Territories          159

140D..... Exercise of jurisdiction under cross‑vesting provisions.................. 159

140E...... Commonwealth consent to conferral of functions etc. on Commonwealth entities   159

140F...... How duty is imposed...................................................................... 160

140G..... When an application law imposes a duty......................................... 161

140H..... Application laws may operate concurrently with this Act............... 161

140J...... No doubling‑up of liabilities........................................................... 161

140K..... References in instruments to the Australian Consumer Law........... 161

Part XIA—The Competition Code                                                                         163

150A..... Definitions...................................................................................... 163

150B..... Objects of this Part.......................................................................... 164

150C..... The Competition Code.................................................................... 164

150D..... Federal Court may exercise jurisdiction under application laws of Territories          165

150E...... Exercise of jurisdiction under cross‑vesting provisions.................. 165

150F...... Commonwealth consent to conferral of functions etc. on Commonwealth entities   165

150FA... How duty is imposed...................................................................... 166

150FB... When an application law imposes a duty......................................... 167

150G..... Application laws may operate concurrently with this Act............... 167

150H..... No doubling‑up of liabilities........................................................... 167

150I....... References in instruments to the Competition Code........................ 167

150J...... Authorisations etc. under this Act may relate also to Competition Code  168

150K..... Gazettal of jurisdictions that excessively modify the Code.............. 168

Part XIB—The Telecommunications Industry: Anti‑competitive conduct and record‑keeping rules  169

Division 1—Introduction                                                                                        169

151AA.. Simplified outline............................................................................ 169

151AB.. Definitions...................................................................................... 170

151AC.. Extension to external Territories...................................................... 172

151AD.. Continuity of partnerships............................................................... 172

151AE... Additional operation of Part............................................................ 172

151AF... Telecommunications market............................................................ 173

151AG.. When a body corporate is related to a partnership........................... 173

151AH.. Degree of power in a telecommunications market........................... 173

151AI.... Interpretation of Part IV or VII not affected by this Part................. 176

Division 2—Anti‑competitive conduct                                                             177

151AJ... Anti‑competitive conduct................................................................ 177

151AK.. The competition rule........................................................................ 180

Division 3—Competition notices and exemption orders                        181

Subdivision A—Competition notices                                                                 181

151AKAPart A competition notices............................................................... 181

151AL... Part B competition notices............................................................... 182

151AM. Competition notice to be given to carrier or carriage service provider 183

151AN.. Evidentiary effect of competition notice.......................................... 183

151AO.. Duration of Part A competition notice............................................. 183

151AOAVariation of competition notice....................................................... 184

151AOBRevocation of competition notice..................................................... 184

151AP... Guidelines....................................................................................... 184

151AQ.. Commission to act expeditiously..................................................... 185

151AQAStay of proceedings relating to competition notices......................... 185

151AQBAdvisory notices............................................................................. 186

151AR.. Register of competition notices....................................................... 187

Subdivision B—Exemption orders                                                                    187

151AS... Exemption orders............................................................................ 187

151AT... Form of application......................................................................... 188

151AU.. Further information......................................................................... 188

151AV.. Withdrawal of application............................................................... 188

151AW. Commission must publicise receipt of applications......................... 188

151AX.. Commission may refuse to consider application if it relates to the same conduct as an authorisation application     188

151AY.. Commission may refuse to consider application if it relates to the same conduct as a Part VII notification              189

151AZ... Commission may convene conference to discuss application.......... 190

151BA.. Commission must grant or reject application................................... 190

151BB... Commission to give opportunity for submissions........................... 190

151BC... Criteria for making exemption order............................................... 191

151BD.. Notification of decision................................................................... 192

151BE... Duration of exemption order may be limited................................... 192

151BF... Conditions of exemption order........................................................ 192

151BG.. Revocation of exemption order....................................................... 192

151BH.. Register of exemption orders.......................................................... 193

Subdivision C—Miscellaneous                                                                            194

151BJ.... Conduct includes proposed conduct................................................ 194

Division 4—Tariff filing                                                                                          195

151BK... Tariff filing directions..................................................................... 195

151BL... Specification of goods and services................................................ 197

151BM.. Notification of reasons.................................................................... 197

151BN.. Duration of direction may be limited............................................... 197

151BO.. Revocation of direction................................................................... 197

151BP... Variation of direction...................................................................... 198

151BQ.. Public access to tariff information................................................... 198

151BR... Register of tariff filing directions.................................................... 199

151BT... Meaning of terms and conditions................................................... 200

Division 5—Tariff filing by Telstra                                                                   201

151BTA Tariff filing by Telstra..................................................................... 201

Division 6—Record‑keeping rules and disclosure directions              203

151BU.. Commission may make record‑keeping rules.................................. 203

151BUAAMinister may give directions to Commission............................... 204

151BUABRequest for disclosure.................................................................. 205

151BUACommission gives access to reports................................................ 206

151BUB Carrier or carriage service provider gives access to reports............. 209

151BUC Carrier or carriage service provider gives access to periodic reports 211

151BUDExemption of reports from access requirements.............................. 214

151BUDACommission gives access to Ministerially‑directed reports.......... 215

151BUDBCarrier or carriage service provider gives access to
Ministerially‑directed reports.......................................................... 217

151BUDCCarrier or carriage service provider gives access to
Ministerially‑directed periodic reports............................................. 219

151BUE Access via the internet..................................................................... 222

151BUF Self‑incrimination............................................................................ 222

151BV.. Incorrect records............................................................................. 222

Division 7—Enforcement of the competition rule, tariff filing directions, record‑keeping rules and disclosure directions                                                                        224

151BW.. Person involved in a contravention of the competition rule, a tariff filing direction, a record‑keeping rule or a disclosure direction.......................................................................................... 224

151BX.. Pecuniary penalties for breach of the competition rule, a tariff filing direction, a record‑keeping rule or a disclosure direction.......................................................................................... 224

151BY.. Civil action for recovery of pecuniary penalties.............................. 226

151BZ... Criminal proceedings not to be brought for contraventions of the competition rule, tariff filing directions, record‑keeping rules or disclosure directions........................................................... 227

151CA.. Injunctions...................................................................................... 227

151CB... Orders to disclose information or publish an advertisement—breach of the competition rule  229

151CC... Actions for damages—breach of the competition rule..................... 230

151CD.. Finding of fact in proceedings to be evidence................................. 230

151CE... Other orders—compensation for breach of the competition rule..... 231

151CF... Conduct by directors, employees or agents..................................... 232

Division 8—Disclosure of documents by Commission                             233

151CG.. Disclosure of documents by Commission....................................... 233

Division 9—Treatment of partnerships                                                          235

151CH.. Treatment of partnerships................................................................ 235

Division 10—Review of decisions                                                                       236

151CI.... Review by Tribunal......................................................................... 236

151CJ.... Functions and powers of Tribunal.................................................. 237

151CK... Provisions that do not apply in relation to a Tribunal review.......... 238

Division 11—Reviews of competitive safeguards within the telecommunications industry        239

151CL... Reviews of competitive safeguards within the telecommunications industry            239

Division 12—Monitoring of telecommunications charges paid by consumers   240

151CM.. Monitoring of telecommunications charges paid by consumers...... 240

Division 12A—Reports about competition in the telecommunications industry               242

151CMAPublic reports about competition in the
telecommunications industry........................................................... 242

151CMBConfidential reports about competition in the
telecommunications industry........................................................... 243

151CMCExamples of matters that may be specified in a determination
under section 151CMA or 151CMB.............................................. 243

Division 13—Review of operation of this Part                                           245

151CN.. Review of operation of this Part...................................................... 245

Division 15—Voluntary undertakings given by Telstra                        246

151CQ.. Voluntary undertakings given by Telstra........................................ 246

Division 16—NBN corporations                                                                         247

151DA.. Authorised conduct—subsection 51(1)........................................... 247

151DB.. Listed points of interconnection...................................................... 251

151DC.. Review of policies and procedures relating to the identification of listed points of interconnection          252

151DD.. Review of operation of this Division.............................................. 253

Part XIC—Telecommunications access regime                                               254

Division 1—Introduction                                                                                        254

152AA.. Simplified outline............................................................................ 254

152AB.. Object of this Part........................................................................... 256

152AC.. Definitions...................................................................................... 258

152AD.. This Part binds the Crown.............................................................. 261

152AE... Extension to external Territories...................................................... 261

152AF... Access............................................................................................. 261

152AG.. Access seeker.................................................................................. 262

152AGADesignated superfast telecommunications network......................... 262

152AH.. Reasonableness—terms and conditions.......................................... 265

152AI.... When public inquiry commences.................................................... 266

152AJ... Interpretation of Part IIIA not affected by this Part......................... 266

152AK.. Operation of Parts IV and VII not affected by this Part.................. 266

Division 2—Declared services                                                                             267

152AL... Declared services............................................................................ 267

152ALA Duration of declaration.................................................................... 272

152AM. Inquiries about proposals to declare services.................................. 275

152AN.. Combined inquiries about proposals to declare services................. 275

152AO.. Variation or revocation of declaration............................................. 276

152AQ.. Register of declared services........................................................... 276

152AQCCompensation for acquisition of property....................................... 277

Division 3—Standard access obligations                                                        278

Subdivision A—Category A standard access obligations                            278

152AR.. Category A standard access obligations.......................................... 278

152ARALayer 2 bitstream services to be supplied on a
non‑discriminatory basis................................................................. 282

152ARB Layer 2 bitstream services—carriers and carriage service providers to carry on related activities on a non‑discriminatory basis................................................................................................ 283

152ASA Anticipatory class exemptions from category A standard access obligations           284

152ATA Anticipatory individual exemptions from category A standard access obligations   286

152AU.. Individual exemptions—request for further information................. 290

152AXAStatement of reasons for decision—specification of
documents....................................................................................... 291

Subdivision B—Category B standard access obligations                            291

152AXBCategory B standard access obligations........................................... 291

152AXCNBN corporation to supply declared services on a
non‑discriminatory basis................................................................. 294

152AXDNBN corporation to carry on related activities on a
non‑discriminatory basis................................................................. 295

Subdivision C—Compliance with standard access obligations                  295

152AY.. Compliance with standard access obligations.................................. 295

152AYAAncillary obligations—confidential information............................. 296

152AZ... Carrier licence condition.................................................................. 297

152BA.. Service provider rule....................................................................... 297

152BB... Judicial enforcement of standard access obligations........................ 298

152BBAAJudicial enforcement of conditions and limitations of
exemption determinations and orders.............................................. 299

152BBA Commission may give directions in relation to negotiations............ 300

152BBB Enforcement of directions............................................................... 302

152BBC Commission’s role in negotiations.................................................. 302

152BBD Reaching agreement on terms and conditions of access.................. 303

Division 4—Access determinations                                                                   304

Subdivision A—Commission may make access determinations                304

152BC... Access determinations..................................................................... 304

152BCA Matters that the Commission must take into account....................... 306

152BCB Restrictions on access determinations [see Note 4]......................... 307

152BCC Access agreements prevail over inconsistent access determinations 310

152BCCAFinal migration plan prevails over inconsistent access
determinations................................................................................. 310

152BCD Fixed principles provisions............................................................. 310

152BCE Access determinations may be set out in the same document.......... 312

152BCF Duration of access determination.................................................... 312

152BCG Interim access determinations.......................................................... 316

152BCGAStay of access determinations....................................................... 317

Subdivision B—Public inquiries about proposals to make access determinations        317

152BCH Access determination to be made after public inquiry..................... 317

152BCI. When public inquiry must be held................................................... 317

152BCJ. Combined inquiries about proposals to make access determinations 320

152BCK Time limit for making an access determination................................ 320

Subdivision C—Variation or revocation of access determinations          321

152BCN Variation or revocation of access determinations............................ 321

Subdivision D—Compliance with access determinations                             323

152BCO Carrier licence condition.................................................................. 323

152BCP Service provider rule....................................................................... 323

Subdivision E—Private enforcement of access determinations                 323

152BCQ Private enforcement of access determinations................................. 323

152BCR Consent injunctions......................................................................... 324

152BCS Interim injunctions.......................................................................... 324

152BCT Factors relevant to granting a restraining injunction........................ 324

152BCU Factors relevant to granting a mandatory injunction........................ 325

152BCV Discharge or variation of injunction or other order......................... 325

Subdivision F—Register of Access Determinations                                       325

152BCWRegister of Access Determinations................................................. 325

Division 4A—Binding rules of conduct                                                           327

Subdivision A—Commission may make binding rules of conduct            327

152BD.. Binding rules of conduct................................................................. 327

152BDAAMatters that the Commission must take into account.................... 328

152BDARestrictions on binding rules of conduct [see Note 4]..................... 329

152BDB Access agreements prevail over inconsistent binding rules of conduct 332

152BDC Duration of binding rules of conduct.............................................. 332

152BDCAFinal migration plan prevails over inconsistent binding
rules of conduct............................................................................... 333

152BDDCommission must give copy of binding rules of conduct to
carrier etc......................................................................................... 333

152BDE Access determinations that are inconsistent with binding rules of conduct               333

152BDEAStay of binding rules of conduct................................................... 333

Subdivision B—Compliance with binding rules of conduct                        334

152BDF Carrier licence condition.................................................................. 334

152BDGService provider rule....................................................................... 334

Subdivision C—Private enforcement of binding rules of conduct            334

152BDHPrivate enforcement of binding rules of conduct............................. 334

152BDI. Consent injunctions......................................................................... 335

152BDJ. Interim injunctions.......................................................................... 335

152BDK Factors relevant to granting a restraining injunction........................ 335

152BDL Factors relevant to granting a mandatory injunction........................ 336

152BDMDischarge or variation of injunction or other order......................... 336

Subdivision D—Register of Binding Rules of Conduct                                 336

152BDNRegister of Binding Rules of Conduct............................................. 336

Division 4B—Access agreements                                                                       338

152BE... Access agreements.......................................................................... 338

152BEA Lodgment of access agreements with the Commission................... 340

152BEB Notification of termination of access agreement.............................. 341

152BEBANBN corporation to give the Commission a statement about
the differences between an access agreement and a standard form of access agreement           342

152BEBBNBN corporation to give the Commission a statement about
the differences between an access agreement and a special access undertaking        343

152BEBCNBN corporation to give the Commission a statement about
the differences between an access agreement and an access determination               345

152BEBDRegister of NBN Access Agreement Statements........................... 346

152BEBELayer 2 bitstream services—carrier or carriage service
provider to give the Commission a statement about the differences between an access agreement and a special access undertaking..................................................................................... 347

152BEBFLayer 2 bitstream services—carrier or carriage service
provider to give the Commission a statement about the differences between an access agreement and an access determination................................................................................... 348

152BEBGRegister of Layer 2 Bitstream Access Agreement Statements....... 350

152BEC Carrier licence condition.................................................................. 351

152BED Service provider rule....................................................................... 351

Division 5—Access undertakings                                                                       352

Subdivision B—Special access undertakings                                                  352

152CBA What is a special access undertaking?............................................ 352

152CBAAFixed principles terms and conditions........................................... 355

152CBB Further information about undertaking............................................ 358

152CBC Commission to accept or reject access undertaking......................... 359

152CBCASerial undertakings........................................................................ 361

152CBD Criteria for accepting access undertaking........................................ 362

152CBDAVariation of special access undertaking........................................ 364

152CBE Extension of access undertaking..................................................... 365

152CBF Duration of access undertaking....................................................... 366

152CBG Variation of access undertakings..................................................... 366

152CBH Further information about variation of access undertaking.............. 368

152CBI. Voluntary withdrawal of undertaking............................................. 369

152CBIASpecial access undertakings prevail over inconsistent access
determinations................................................................................. 369

152CBIBSpecial access undertakings prevail over inconsistent binding
rules of conduct............................................................................... 369

152CBICAccess agreements prevail over special access undertakings.......... 370

152CBJ. Proposed service............................................................................. 370

Subdivision C—General provisions                                                                  370

152CC... Register of access undertakings...................................................... 370

152CD.. Enforcement of access undertakings............................................... 370

152CDADeferral of consideration of an access undertaking etc.................... 371

Division 6—Ministerial pricing determinations                                          372

152CH.. Ministerial pricing determinations................................................... 372

152CI.... Undertakings, access determinations and binding rules of conduct that are inconsistent with Ministerial pricing determinations................................................................................. 372

152CJ.... Register of Ministerial pricing determinations................................. 373

Division 6A—Supply of services by NBN corporations                         374

152CJA. Supply of services by NBN corporations....................................... 374

152CJB. Mandatory NBN services............................................................... 375

152CJC. Carrier licence condition.................................................................. 376

152CJD. Service provider rule....................................................................... 377

152CJE. Judicial enforcement of obligations................................................. 377

152CJF. Standard form of access agreement................................................. 377

152CJG. When NBN corporation is not capable of supplying a carriage service 378

Division 6B—Explanatory material relating to anti‑discrimination provisions                379

152CJH. Explanatory material relating to anti‑discrimination provisions....... 379

Division 7—Relationship between this Part and Part IIIA                  380

152CK... Relationship between this Part and Part IIIA.................................. 380

Division 10—Hindering the fulfilment of a standard access obligation etc.        381

152EF... Prohibition on hindering the fulfilment of a standard access obligation etc.             381

152EG... Enforcement of prohibition on hindering the fulfilment of a standard access obligation etc.    381

152EH... Consent injunctions......................................................................... 382

152EI.... Interim injunctions.......................................................................... 382

152EJ.... Factors relevant to granting a restraining injunction........................ 382

152EK... Factors relevant to granting a mandatory injunction........................ 383

152EL... Discharge or variation of injunction or other order......................... 383

Division 10A—Procedural Rules                                                                        384

152ELA Procedural Rules............................................................................. 384

152ELB. Public consultation.......................................................................... 385

152ELC. Plan for the development of Procedural Rules................................ 385

Division 11—Miscellaneous                                                                                   386

152ELD Compensation for acquisition of property....................................... 386

152EM.. Continuity of partnerships............................................................... 386

152EN... Treatment of partnerships................................................................ 386

152EO... Conduct by directors, servants or agents......................................... 387

152EOA Review of operation of this Part etc................................................ 388

152EP... Regulations about fees for inspection etc. of registers..................... 388

152EQ... Assistance to independent telecommunications adjudicator............. 389

152ER... Voluntary undertakings given by Telstra........................................ 389

Part XID—Search and seizure                                                                                  391

Division 1—Preliminary                                                                                          391

154........ Simplified outline............................................................................ 391

154A..... Definitions...................................................................................... 391

Division 2—Appointment of inspectors and identity cards                  394

154B..... Appointment of inspectors.............................................................. 394

154C..... Identity cards................................................................................... 394

Division 3—Entry to premises with consent                                                 396

154D..... Entry with consent.......................................................................... 396

154E...... Powers in relation to premises........................................................ 396

154F...... Operation of electronic equipment at premises................................ 397

Division 4—Entry to premises under a search warrant                        398

Subdivision A—Powers available under a search warrant                         398

154G..... The things that are authorised by a search warrant.......................... 398

154GA.. Removing things for examination or processing............................. 399

154H..... Operation of electronic equipment at premises................................ 400

154J...... Securing electronic equipment for use by experts........................... 401

Subdivision B—Availability of assistance and use of force in executing a search warrant        402

154K..... Authorisation of officers assisting.................................................. 402

154L...... Availability of assistance and use of force in executing a search warrant 403

Subdivision C—Obligations of executing officer and officers assisting  403

154M.... Announcement before entry............................................................ 403

154N..... Details of warrant to be given to occupier....................................... 403

Subdivision D—Occupier’s rights and responsibilities                                 404

154P...... Occupier entitled to observe search being conducted...................... 404

154Q..... Occupier to provide reasonable facilities and assistance.................. 404

154R..... Answering of questions or producing evidential material............... 404

154RA.. Person with computer knowledge to assist access etc..................... 405

Subdivision E—General provisions relating to seizure                               406

154S...... Copies of seized things to be provided............................................ 406

154T...... Receipts for things seized or moved under warrant......................... 406

154U..... Return of seized things.................................................................... 406

154V..... Magistrate may permit a thing to be retained................................... 407

154W.... Disposal of things if there is no owner or owner cannot be located 408

Subdivision F—Search warrants                                                                        408

154X..... Issue of search warrants.................................................................. 408

154Y..... Search warrants by telephone, fax etc............................................. 409

154Z...... Offences relating to warrants.......................................................... 411

Subdivision G—Powers of magistrates                                                            412

154ZA... Powers conferred on magistrates.................................................... 412

Division 5—General provisions relating to electronic equipment    413

154ZB... Operation of electronic equipment at premises................................ 413

154ZC... Compensation for damage to electronic equipment......................... 413

Part XII—Miscellaneous                                                                                                415

155........ Power to obtain information, documents and evidence................... 415

155AAAProtection of certain information..................................................... 418

155AA.. Protection of Part VB information.................................................. 424

155A..... Power to obtain information and documents in New Zealand relating to trans‑Tasman markets              424

155B..... Australian Competition and Consumer Commission may receive information and documents on behalf of New Zealand Commerce Commission.................................................................. 425

156........ Inspection of documents by Commission....................................... 426

157........ Disclosure of documents by Commission....................................... 427

157AA.. Disclosure of documents by Tribunal in relation to merger authorisations               430

157A..... Disclosure of information by Commission..................................... 431

157B..... Disclosure of protected cartel information to a court or tribunal...... 431

157C..... Disclosure of protected cartel information to a party to court proceedings etc.         434

157D..... General powers of a court............................................................... 436

158........ Protection of members of Tribunal, counsel and witnesses............. 437

159........ Incriminating answers..................................................................... 437

160........ Failure of witness to attend............................................................. 438

161........ Refusal to be sworn or to answer questions.................................... 438

162........ Contempt......................................................................................... 439

162A..... Intimidation etc................................................................................ 440

163........ Prosecutions.................................................................................... 440

163A..... Declarations and orders................................................................... 441

165........ Inspection of, furnishing of copies of, and evidence of, documents 444

166........ Certificates as to furnishing of particulars to Commission.............. 446

167........ Judicial notice.................................................................................. 446

170........ Legal and financial assistance.......................................................... 447

171........ Annual report by Commission........................................................ 448

171A..... Charges by the Commission........................................................... 449

171B..... Division 3 of Part IIIA does not confer judicial power on the Commission             450

172........ Regulations..................................................................................... 450

173........ Authorisation for the purposes of subsection 51(1)........................ 452

Part XIII—Application and transitional provisions relating to the competition provisions         453

Division 1—Cartel conduct                                                                                   453

174........ Definitions...................................................................................... 453

175........ Giving effect after the commencement time to a cartel provision in existence before that time 453

176........ Proceedings relating to price‑fixing contraventions taking place before the commencement time             453

177........ Authorisations in force before the commencement time.................. 453

178........ Notifications in force before the commencement time..................... 454

Division 2—Application of amendments made by the Competition and Consumer Legislation Amendment Act 2011                                                                                                456

179........ Amendments of section 50.............................................................. 456


Part X—International liner cargo shipping

Division 1—Preliminary

10.01  Objects of Part

             (1)  The principal objects of this Part are:

                     (a)  to ensure that Australian exporters have continued access to outwards liner cargo shipping services of adequate frequency and reliability at freight rates that are internationally competitive; and

                     (b)  to promote conditions in the international liner cargo shipping industry that encourage stable access to export markets for exporters in all States and Territories; and

                     (c)  to ensure that efficient Australian flag shipping is not unreasonably hindered from normal commercial participation in any outwards liner cargo shipping trade; and

                     (d)  as far as practicable, to extend to Australian importers in each State and Territory the protection given by this Part to Australian exporters.

             (2)  It is the intention of the Parliament that the principal objects of this Part should be achieved:

                     (a)  by permitting continued conference operations while enhancing the competitive environment for international liner cargo shipping services through the provision of adequate and appropriate safeguards against abuse of conference power, particularly by:

                              (i)  enacting additional restrictive trade practice provisions applying to ocean carriers;

                             (ii)  requiring conference agreements to meet certain minimum standards;

                            (iii)  making conference agreements generally publicly available;

                            (iv)  permitting only partial and conditional exemption from restrictive trade practice prohibitions; and

                             (v)  requiring conferences to take part in negotiations with representative shipper bodies;

                     (b)  through increased reliance on private commercial and legal processes and a reduced level of government regulation of routine commercial matters; and

                     (c)  by the exercise of jurisdiction, consistent with international law:

                              (i)  over ocean carriers who have a substantial connection with Australia because they provide international liner cargo shipping services; and

                             (ii)  to enable remedies for contravention of the provisions of this Part to be enforced within Australia.

10.01A  Simplified outline

                   The following is a simplified outline of this Part:

•     This Part sets up a system for regulating international liner cargo shipping services.

•     The main components of that system are as follows:

               (a)     registration of conference agreements;

              (b)     regulation of non‑conference ocean carriers with substantial market power;

               (c)     regulation of unfair pricing practices;

              (d)     registration of agents of ocean carriers.

•     The parties to a conference agreement relating to international liner cargo shipping services may apply for the registration of the agreement.

•     If the conference agreement is registered, the parties will be given partial and conditional exemptions from:

               (a)     sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ and 44ZZRK (cartel conduct); and

              (b)     section 45 (contracts etc. that restrict dealings or affect competition); and

               (c)     section 47 (exclusive dealing).

•     The parties to a registered conference agreement are required to negotiate with, and provide information to, representative shipper bodies.

•     The Commission may investigate whether grounds exist for the Minister to deregister a conference agreement.

•     The main ground for deregistration is a breach by the parties to the agreement of requirements imposed on them by this Part.

10.02  Interpretation

             (1)  In this Part, unless the contrary intention appears:

agreement means any contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding, whether made in or outside Australia.

ancillary service, in relation to a scheduled cargo shipping service, means:

                     (a)  an inter‑terminal transport service; or

                     (b)  a stevedoring service; or

                     (c)  a service provided outside Australia;

that:

                     (d)  relates to the cargo transported, or to be transported, on the scheduled cargo shipping service; and

                     (e)  is provided by, or on behalf of, the provider of the scheduled cargo shipping service.

association includes a body corporate.

Australian exporter means a person who exports goods from Australia.

Australian flag shipping operator means a person who:

                     (a)  is an Australian citizen or a body corporate incorporated by or under the law of the Commonwealth or of a State or Territory;

                     (b)  provides, or proposes to provide, shipping services; and

                     (c)  normally uses, or proposes normally to use, in providing the services only:

                              (i)  a ship that is registered in Australia; or

                             (ii)  2 or more ships, all or most of which are registered in Australia.

Australian importer means a person who imports goods into Australia.

authorised officer means an officer of the Department who is authorised, in writing, by the Minister for the purposes of this Part.

conference means an unincorporated association of 2 or more ocean carriers carrying on 2 or more businesses each of which includes, or is proposed to include, the provision of outwards liner cargo shipping services or inwards liner cargo shipping services.

conference agreement means:

                     (a)  an outwards conference agreement; or

                     (b)  an inwards conference agreement.

designated inwards peak shipper body means an association specified in a notice under subsection 10.03(2A).

designated inwards secondary shipper body means an association specified in a notice under subsection 10.03(2B).

designated inwards shipper body means:

                     (a)  a designated inwards peak shipper body; or

                     (b)  a designated inwards secondary shipper body.

designated outwards peak shipper body means an association specified in a notice under subsection 10.03(1).

designated outwards secondary shipper body means an association specified in a notice under subsection 10.03(2).

designated outwards shipper body means:

                     (a)  a designated outwards peak shipper body; or

                     (b)  a designated outwards secondary shipper body.

designated port area means the area within the limits of a port appointed under section 15 of the Customs Act 1901, being the limits fixed under that section.

designated secondary shipper body means:

                     (a)  a designated outwards secondary shipper body; or

                     (b)  a designated inwards secondary shipper body.

designated shipper body means:

                     (a)  a designated outwards shipper body; or

                     (b)  a designated inwards shipper body.

exemption order means an order under section 10.72A.

freight rate agreement means a conference agreement that consists of or includes freight rate charges.

freight rate charges:

                     (a)  in relation to an outwards conference agreement—means those parts of the conference agreement that specify freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) for outwards liner cargo shipping services; and

                     (b)  in relation to an inwards conference agreement—means those parts of the conference agreement that specify freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) for inwards liner cargo shipping services.

handling cargo includes a service that is related to handling of cargo.

inland terminal has the meaning given by section 10.02A.

international liner cargo shipping service means:

                     (a)  an outwards liner cargo shipping service; or

                     (b)  an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

inter‑terminal transport service means a service for the transport of various types of general cargo:

                     (a)  from an inland terminal to a port terminal; or

                     (b)  from a port terminal to an inland terminal; or

                     (c)  from a port terminal to another port terminal;

and includes the handling of the cargo within any of those terminals.

inwards conference agreement means an agreement between members of a conference in relation to inwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, by them, and includes an inwards varying conference agreement.

inwards liner cargo shipping service means an inwards scheduled cargo shipping service and, if the inwards scheduled cargo shipping service is part of a terminal‑to‑terminal service, includes an ancillary service that relates to the inwards scheduled cargo shipping service.

inwards loyalty agreement means an agreement:

                     (a)  between an ocean carrier or conference and a shipper or designated inwards shipper body; and

                     (b)  that makes provision, in relation to inwards liner cargo shipping services, having the purpose or effect of giving certain benefits to the shipper, or a shipper represented by the designated inwards shipper body, if the shipper ships with the ocean carrier, or members of the conference:

                              (i)  all or particular cargo, or a particular portion of all or particular cargo, shipped by the shipper; or

                             (ii)  a particular quantity of cargo or of particular cargo.

inwards scheduled cargo shipping service means a scheduled cargo shipping service where the transport of the cargo by sea commences from a place outside Australia and ends at a place in Australia.

inwards varying conference agreement means an agreement:

                     (a)  that varies an inwards conference agreement; or

                     (b)  that otherwise affects an inwards conference agreement (including an agreement referred to in subsection (4)).

loyalty agreement means:

                     (a)  an outwards loyalty agreement; or

                     (b)  an inwards loyalty agreement.

ocean carrier means a person who provides, or proposes to provide, international liner cargo shipping services.

outwards conference agreement means an agreement between members of a conference in relation to outwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, by them, and includes an outwards varying conference agreement.

outwards liner cargo shipping service means an outwards scheduled cargo shipping service and, if the outwards scheduled cargo shipping service is part of a terminal‑to‑terminal service, includes an ancillary service that relates to the outwards scheduled cargo shipping service.

outwards loyalty agreement means an agreement:

                     (a)  between an ocean carrier or conference and a shipper or designated outwards shipper body; and

                     (b)  that makes provision, in relation to outwards liner cargo shipping services, having the purpose or effect of giving certain benefits to the shipper, or a shipper represented by the designated outwards shipper body, if the shipper ships with the ocean carrier, or members of the conference:

                              (i)  all or particular cargo, or a particular portion of all or particular cargo, shipped by the shipper; or

                             (ii)  a particular quantity of cargo or of particular cargo.

outwards scheduled cargo shipping service means a scheduled cargo shipping service where the transport of the cargo by sea commences from a place in Australia and ends at a place outside Australia.

outwards varying conference agreement means an agreement:

                     (a)  that varies an outwards conference agreement; or

                     (b)  that otherwise affects an outwards conference agreement (including an agreement referred to in subsection (3)).

port terminal means:

                     (a)  the area within the limits of a wharf appointed under section 15 of the Customs Act 1901, being the limits fixed under that section; or

                     (b)  a terminal facility within the limits of a designated port area.

pricing practice means the fixing, controlling or maintaining by an ocean carrier of prices charged for, or the giving or allowing by an ocean carrier of discounts, allowances, rebates or credits in relation to, outwards liner cargo shipping services or inwards liner cargo shipping services provided by the ocean carrier.

provisionally registered conference agreement means a conference agreement that is provisionally registered under this Part.

registered agent, in relation to an ocean carrier, means the person specified in the register of ocean carrier agents as the agent of the ocean carrier.

registered conference agreement means a conference agreement that is finally registered under this Part.

registered non‑conference ocean carrier with substantial market power means an ocean carrier specified in the register of non‑conference ocean carriers with substantial market power.

Registrar means the Registrar of Liner Shipping.

scheduled cargo shipping service means a scheduled service for the transport of various types of general cargo by sea on particular routes, generally by container and generally at predetermined freight rates.

stevedoring service means:

                     (a)  the loading or unloading of cargo into or from a ship; or

                     (b)  the handling of cargo within a port terminal.

terminal‑to‑terminal service means:

                     (a)  an outwards scheduled cargo shipping service, together with any ancillary service that relates to the outwards scheduled cargo shipping service; or

                     (b)  an inwards scheduled cargo shipping service, together with any ancillary service that relates to the inwards scheduled cargo shipping service.

vary, in relation to a conference agreement, includes vary by way of:

                     (a)  omitting or altering any of the provisions of, or parties to, the agreement;

                     (b)  adding new provisions or parties to the agreement; or

                     (c)  substituting new provisions or parties for any of the provisions of, or parties to, the agreement.

varying conference agreement means:

                     (a)  an outwards varying conference agreement; or

                     (b)  an inwards varying conference agreement.

             (2)  A reference in this Part to the minimum level of outwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under an outwards conference agreement includes a reference to the frequency of sailings, cargo carrying capacity, and ports of call, of outwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the agreement.

          (2A)  A reference in this Part to the minimum level of inwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under an inwards conference agreement includes a reference to the frequency of sailings, cargo carrying capacity, and ports of call, of inwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the agreement.

             (3)  A reference in this Part to an agreement that affects an outwards conference agreement includes a reference to an agreement between parties to the conference agreement or between parties to the conference agreement and other ocean carriers:

                     (a)  that affects the conduct of parties to the conference agreement in relation to outwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the conference agreement;

                     (b)  that affects the minimum level of outwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the conference agreement; or

                     (c)  that otherwise affects:

                              (i)  the operation, or proposed operation, of the conference agreement; or

                             (ii)  outwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the conference agreement.

             (4)  A reference in this Part to an agreement that affects an inwards conference agreement includes a reference to an agreement between parties to the conference agreement or between parties to the conference agreement and other ocean carriers:

                     (a)  that affects the conduct of parties to the conference agreement in relation to inwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the conference agreement; or

                     (b)  that affects the minimum level of inwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the conference agreement; or

                     (c)  that otherwise affects:

                              (i)  the operation, or proposed operation, of the conference agreement; or

                             (ii)  inwards liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, under the conference agreement.

             (5)  For the purposes of this Part (except where the contrary intention appears), if:

                     (a)  an ancillary service relates to a scheduled cargo shipping service; and

                     (b)  the ancillary service is provided on behalf of the provider of the scheduled cargo shipping service by a third person;

the ancillary service is taken to be provided by the provider of the scheduled cargo shipping service instead of by the third person.

10.02A  Inland terminals

             (1)  The Minister may, by legislative instrument, declare that a specified facility is an inland terminal for the purposes of this Part.

             (2)  The facility must be in Australia, but outside a designated port area.

             (3)  In making a declaration under subsection (1), the Minister must have regard to the following matters:

                     (a)  whether the facility is under the control of a person who is, or of persons each of whom is:

                              (i)  an ocean carrier; or

                             (ii)  a person who provides services at the facility at the request of an ocean carrier;

                     (b)  whether the facility is used for either or both of the following purposes:

                              (i)  assembling export cargoes for transport to a port terminal located at the port where the cargoes are to be loaded onto ships for export;

                             (ii)  delivering imported cargoes to importers or their representatives;

                     (c)  any other matters that the Minister thinks are relevant.

             (4)  In making a declaration under subsection (1), the Minister must not give preference (within the meaning of section 99 of the Constitution) to one State or part of a State over another State or part of a State.

             (5)  A declaration under subsection (1) has effect accordingly.

10.03  Designated shipper bodies

             (1)  If the Minister is of the opinion that an association represents the interests, in relation to outwards liner cargo shipping services, of Australian shippers generally, the Minister may, by legislative instrument, declare that the association is a designated outwards peak shipper body for the purposes of this Part.

             (2)  If the Minister is of the opinion:

                     (a)  that an association represents the interests, in relation to outwards liner cargo shipping services, of all or any of the following kinds of persons:

                              (i)  Australian shippers in a particular trade;

                             (ii)  Australian shippers of particular kinds of goods;

                            (iii)  shippers in a particular part of Australia;

                            (iv)  producers of goods of a kind exported, or proposed to be exported, from Australia; and

                     (b)  that it is desirable that the association be a designated outwards secondary shipper body for the purposes of this Part;

the Minister may, by legislative instrument, declare that the association is a designated outwards secondary shipper body for the purposes of this Part.

          (2A)  If the Minister is of the opinion that an association represents the interests, in relation to inwards liner cargo shipping services, of Australian shippers generally, the Minister may, by legislative instrument, declare that the association is a designated inwards peak shipper body for the purposes of this Part.

          (2B)  If the Minister is of the opinion:

                     (a)  that an association represents the interests, in relation to inwards liner cargo shipping services, of all or any of the following kinds of persons:

                              (i)  Australian shippers in a particular trade;

                             (ii)  Australian shippers of particular kinds of goods;

                            (iii)  shippers in a particular part of Australia; and

                     (b)  that it is desirable that the association be a designated inwards secondary shipper body for the purposes of this Part;

the Minister may, by legislative instrument, declare that the association is a designated inwards secondary shipper body for the purposes of this Part.

             (3)  Where the Minister declares that an association is a designated outwards peak shipper body, a designated inwards peak shipper body, a designated outwards secondary shipper body or a designated inwards secondary shipper body for the purposes of this Part, the Registrar shall enter particulars of the association in the register of designated shipper bodies.

             (4)  The particulars entered in the register shall include whether the association is a designated outwards peak shipper body, a designated inwards peak shipper body, a designated outwards secondary shipper body or a designated inwards secondary shipper body.

             (5)  The Minister may, by legislative instrument, make guidelines to be applied by the Registrar in the exercise of the Registrar’s powers to nominate designated secondary shipper bodies for the purposes of sections 10.29, 10.41 and 10.52.

             (6)  The Registrar shall enter particulars of any nomination of a designated secondary shipper body for the purposes of section 10.29, 10.41 or 10.52 in the register of designated shipper bodies.


 

Division 2—Additional restrictive trade practice provisions applying to ocean carriers

10.04  Application of section 46 in relation to conference agreements

             (1)  For the purposes of section 46, if the parties to a conference agreement together have a substantial degree of power in a market in which any party to the agreement provides international liner cargo shipping services under the agreement, each party to the conference agreement shall be taken to have a substantial degree of power in the market.

             (2)  In subsection (1):

conference agreement means an agreement between members of a conference in relation to international liner cargo shipping services provided, or proposed to be provided, by them, and includes an agreement that varies such an agreement.


 

Division 3—Minimum standards for conference agreements

10.06  Application of Australian law to outwards conference agreements and withdrawal from agreements

             (1)  An outwards conference agreement must expressly provide for a question arising under the agreement in relation to an outwards liner cargo shipping service provided, or proposed to be provided, under the agreement to be determined in Australia in accordance with Australian law unless the parties and the Minister agree, in writing, to the particular question being otherwise determined.

             (2)  An outwards conference agreement must expressly permit any party to the agreement to withdraw from the agreement on reasonable notice without penalty.

10.07  Minimum levels of shipping services to be specified in conference agreements

             (1)  An outwards conference agreement must contain provisions specifying the minimum level of outwards liner cargo shipping services to be provided under the agreement.

             (2)  An inwards conference agreement must contain provisions specifying the minimum level of inwards liner cargo shipping services to be provided under the agreement.

Note:          See also paragraph 10.33(1)(b) and section 10.72A.

10.08  Conference agreements may include only certain restrictive trade practice provisions

             (1)  If a conference agreement includes a provision:

                    (aa)  that is a provision where the following conditions are satisfied in relation to the provision:

                              (i)  the purpose/effect condition set out in subsection 44ZZRD(2);

                             (ii)  the competition condition set out in subsection 44ZZRD(4); or

                   (ab)  that is a provision where the following conditions are satisfied in relation to the provision:

                              (i)  the purpose condition set out in subsection 44ZZRD(3);

                             (ii)  the competition condition set out in subsection 44ZZRD(4); or

                     (a)  that is an exclusionary provision; or

                     (b)  that has the purpose, or has or is likely to have the effect, of substantially lessening competition (within the meaning of section 45);

the provision, so far as it is covered by paragraph (aa), (ab), (a) or (b), must either:

                     (c)  deal only with the following matters:

                              (i)  the fixing or other regulation of freight rates;

                             (ii)  the pooling or apportionment of earnings, losses or traffic;

                            (iii)  the restriction or other regulation of the quantity or kind of cargo to be carried by parties to the agreement;

                            (iv)  the restriction or other regulation of the entry of new parties to the agreement; or

                     (d)  be necessary for the effective operation of the agreement and of overall benefit to:

                              (i)  in the case of an outwards conference agreement—Australian exporters; or

                             (ii)  in the case of an inwards conference agreement—Australian importers.

             (2)  If a conference agreement includes a provision that permits or requires the practice of exclusive dealing (within the meaning of section 47), the provision, so far as it permits or requires that practice, must be necessary for the effective operation of the agreement and of overall benefit to:

                     (a)  in the case of an outwards conference agreement—Australian exporters; or

                     (b)  in the case of an inwards conference agreement—Australian importers.

Note:          See also paragraph 10.33(1)(ba) and section 10.72A.

             (3)  This section does not apply in relation to a provision of a conference agreement so far as the provision requires or permits a party to the agreement to enter into a loyalty agreement.

10.09  Where may consequences of conference agreements not complying with minimum standards be found?

                   The consequences of a conference agreement not complying with this Division are to be found in the following provisions:

                     (a)  section 10.28 (decision on application for provisional registration);

                     (b)  section 10.33 (decision on application for final registration);

                     (c)  section 10.45 (circumstances in which Minister may exercise powers in relation to registered conference agreements).


 

Division 4—Registers and files and public inspection of them

10.10  Registers and conference agreement files open to public inspection

             (1)  The registers and conference agreement files kept by the Registrar and the Commission under this Part are open to public inspection.

             (2)  A person is entitled, on application to the Registrar or the Commission, as the case requires, and payment of the prescribed fee, to obtain a copy of the whole or any part of:

                     (a)  an entry in a register kept under this Part; or

                     (b)  a conference agreement file kept under this Part.

10.11  What registers are to be kept by the Registrar?

             (1)  The Registrar shall keep:

                     (a)  a register of conference agreements; and

                     (b)  a register of designated shipper bodies; and

                     (c)  a register of non‑conference ocean carriers with substantial market power; and

                     (d)  a register of obligations concerning unfair pricing practices; and

                     (e)  a register of ocean carrier agents; and

                      (f)  a register of exemption orders.

             (2)  An entry in a register must contain such particulars as are prescribed in relation to the register.

10.12  What conference agreement files are to be kept by the Registrar?

             (1)  The Registrar shall keep a file, to be known as the conference agreement file, for each conference agreement (other than a varying conference agreement).

             (2)  The conference agreement file for a conference agreement must include:

                     (a)  documents filed with the Registrar under Division 6 in relation to the agreement or any relevant varying conference agreement (other than any part of a document that is not open to public inspection);

                     (b)  abstracts accepted by the Registrar under section 10.36 in relation to such documents (being abstracts of those parts of the documents that are not open to public inspection); and

                     (c)  notifications given to the Registrar under subsection 10.40(1) or 10.43(1) in relation to the agreement or any relevant varying conference agreement.

10.13  What register is to be kept by the Commission?

             (1)  The Commission shall keep a register of Commission investigations.

             (2)  Subject to section 10.88, the register of Commission investigations shall contain:

                     (a)  references given to the Commission by the Minister under subsections 10.47(1), 10.50(1), 10.57(1) and 10.63(1);

                     (b)  particulars of decisions made by the Commission under subsections 10.48(2), 10.48(2A) and 10.58(2) to hold investigations;

                     (c)  requests made to the Commission by the Minister under subsections 10.48(3) and 10.58(3);

                     (d)  documents given to the Commission in relation to investigations by it under this Part;

                     (e)  particulars of oral submissions made to the Commission in relation to such investigations; and

                      (f)  reports given to the Minister by the Commission in relation to such investigations.


 

Division 5—Exemptions from certain restrictive trade practice prohibitions

Subdivision A—Exemptions relating to conference agreements

10.14  Exemptions apply only to certain activities

             (1)  Subject to this section, the exemptions provided by this Subdivision apply only in relation to the following parts of an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service:

                     (a)  the parts of the service that consist of the transport of the cargo by sea;

                     (b)  stevedoring services;

                     (c)  activities that take place outside Australia.

             (2)  The exemptions provided by this Subdivision extend to the fixing of charges for an inter‑terminal transport service where the service is part of an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

             (3)  The exemptions provided by this Subdivision extend to the determination of common terms and conditions for bills of lading for use in relation to an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

             (4)  To avoid doubt, the exemptions provided by this Subdivision do not extend to any dealings between the parties to a conference agreement and a person who provides ancillary services on behalf of the provider of a scheduled cargo shipping service.

10.15  When do exemptions commence to apply in relation to registered conference agreements?

             (1)  The exemptions provided by this Subdivision (other than sections 10.17A and 10.18A) apply in relation to the operation of a registered outwards conference agreement only after the end of 30 days after the conference agreement is finally registered.

             (2)  The exemptions provided by this Subdivision (other than sections 10.17A and 10.18A) apply in relation to the operation of a registered inwards conference agreement only after whichever is the later of the following times:

                     (a)  the end of 30 days after the conference agreement is finally registered;

                     (b)  the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Trade Practices Amendment (International Liner Cargo Shipping) Act 2000.

10.16  Exemptions do not apply to variations of conference agreement unless varying agreement registered

                   Where a registered conference agreement is varied or otherwise affected by a varying conference agreement (other than an agreement that consists solely of freight rate charges), the exemptions provided by this Subdivision (other than sections 10.17A and 10.18A) apply only in relation to the operation of the registered conference agreement itself, and not that agreement as varied or otherwise affected, unless the varying conference agreement has been finally registered.

10.17  Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK and 45

             (1)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ and 45 do not apply in relation to the making of a contract or arrangement, or the arriving at an understanding, if:

                     (a)  the contract, arrangement or understanding is a conference agreement; and

                     (b)  the parties apply for its provisional registration under this Part within 30 days after the making of the contract or arrangement or arriving at the understanding.

             (2)  Sections 44ZZRG, 44ZZRK and 45 do not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by a party to a registered conference agreement so far as the conduct gives effect to a provision of the agreement in relation to an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

10.17A  Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK and 45 for freight rate agreements

             (1)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ and 45 do not apply to the making of freight rate charges in a freight rate agreement if:

                     (a)  the freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) specified in the freight rate agreement are for outwards liner cargo shipping services provided under a single registered outwards conference agreement after the end of 30 days after the last‑mentioned agreement is finally registered; and

                     (b)  the parties to the freight rate agreement are the same as the parties to the registered outwards conference agreement.

             (2)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ and 45 do not apply to the making of freight rate charges in a freight rate agreement if:

                     (a)  the freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) specified in the freight rate agreement are for inwards liner cargo shipping services provided under a single registered inwards conference agreement after whichever is the later of the following times:

                              (i)  the end of 30 days after the last‑mentioned agreement is finally registered;

                             (ii)  the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Trade Practices Amendment (International Liner Cargo Shipping) Act 2000; and

                     (b)  the parties to the freight rate agreement are the same as the parties to the registered inwards conference agreement.

             (3)  Sections 44ZZRG, 44ZZRK and 45 do not apply to conduct engaged in by a party to a freight rate agreement, so far as the conduct gives effect to freight rate charges in the freight rate agreement, if:

                     (a)  the freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) specified in the freight rate agreement are for outwards liner cargo shipping services provided under a single registered outwards conference agreement after the end of 30 days after the last‑mentioned agreement is finally registered; and

                     (b)  the parties to the freight rate agreement are the same as the parties to the registered outwards conference agreement.

             (4)  Sections 44ZZRG, 44ZZRK and 45 do not apply to conduct engaged in by a party to a freight rate agreement, so far as the conduct gives effect to freight rate charges in the freight rate agreement, if:

                     (a)  the freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) specified in the freight rate agreement are for inwards liner cargo shipping services provided under a single registered inwards conference agreement after whichever is the later of the following times:

                              (i)  the end of 30 days after the last‑mentioned agreement is finally registered;

                             (ii)  the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Trade Practices Amendment (International Liner Cargo Shipping) Act 2000; and

                     (b)  the parties to the freight rate agreement are the same as the parties to the registered inwards conference agreement.

10.18  Exemption from section 47

             (1)  Section 47 does not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by a party to a registered conference agreement so far as the conduct gives effect to a provision of the agreement in relation to an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

             (2)  The exemption provided by subsection (1) does not apply in relation to subsections 47(6) and (7).

10.18A  Exemptions from section 47 for freight rate agreements

             (1)  Section 47 does not apply to conduct engaged in by a party to a freight rate agreement, so far as the conduct gives effect to freight rate charges in the freight rate agreement, if:

                     (a)  the freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) specified in the freight rate agreement are for outwards liner cargo shipping services provided under a single registered outwards conference agreement after the end of 30 days after the last‑mentioned agreement is finally registered; and

                     (b)  the parties to the freight rate agreement are the same as the parties to the registered outwards conference agreement.

             (2)  Section 47 does not apply to conduct engaged in by a party to a freight rate agreement, so far as the conduct gives effect to freight rate charges in the freight rate agreement, if:

                     (a)  the freight rates (including base freight rates, surcharges, rebates and allowances) specified in the freight rate agreement are for inwards liner cargo shipping services provided under a single registered inwards conference agreement after whichever is the later of the following times:

                              (i)  the end of 30 days after the last‑mentioned agreement is finally registered;

                             (ii)  the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Trade Practices Amendment (International Liner Cargo Shipping) Act 2000; and

                     (b)  the parties to the freight rate agreement are the same as the parties to the registered inwards conference agreement.

             (3)  The exemptions provided by subsections (1) and (2) do not apply in relation to subsections 47(6) and (7).

Subdivision B—Exemptions relating to loyalty agreements

10.19  Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK and 45

             (1)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ and 45 do not apply in relation to the making of a contract or arrangement, or the arriving at an understanding, if the contract, arrangement or understanding is a loyalty agreement.

             (2)  Sections 44ZZRG, 44ZZRK and 45 do not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by a party to a loyalty agreement so far as the conduct gives effect to a provision of the agreement in relation to an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

10.20  Exemption from section 47

             (1)  Section 47 does not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by a party to a loyalty agreement in relation to another party to the agreement so far as the conduct gives effect to a provision of the agreement in relation to an outwards liner cargo shipping service or an inwards liner cargo shipping service.

             (2)  The exemption provided by subsection (1) does not apply in relation to subsections 47(6) and (7).

10.21  Exemptions cease to apply in relation to a shipper at the shipper’s option

                   The exemptions provided by this Subdivision in relation to the operation of a loyalty agreement cease to apply in relation to conduct engaged in by an ocean carrier in relation to a shipper if the shipper notifies, as prescribed, the Commission and each ocean carrier who is a party to the agreement that the shipper no longer wishes the exemptions to apply.

Subdivision D—Other exemptions

10.24  Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK, 45 and 47 in relation to certain negotiations

             (1)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ, 45 and 47 do not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by an ocean carrier, conference, shipper or designated shipper body so far as the conduct relates to the determination of terms and conditions of loyalty agreements.

             (2)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK, 45 and 47 do not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by an ocean carrier, conference, shipper or designated shipper body so far as the conduct relates to the obligations of an ocean carrier under any of the following provisions:

                     (a)  section 10.29 (parties to conference agreement to negotiate minimum level of shipping services after provisional registration of agreement);

                     (b)  section 10.41 (parties to registered conference agreement to negotiate with certain designated shipper bodies etc.);

                     (c)  section 10.52 (non‑conference ocean carrier with substantial market power to negotiate with certain designated shipper bodies etc.).

             (3)  The exemptions provided by this section do not apply in relation to subsections 47(6) and (7).

10.24A  Exemptions from sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRG, 44ZZRJ, 44ZZRK, 45 and 47 in relation to stevedoring contracts

             (1)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ and 45 do not apply in relation to the making of a stevedoring contract.

Note:          For stevedoring contract, see subsection (5).

             (2)  Sections 44ZZRG, 44ZZRK, 45 and 47 do not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by a party to a stevedoring contract so far as the conduct gives effect to a provision of the contract.

             (3)  Sections 44ZZRF, 44ZZRJ, 45 and 47 do not apply in relation to conduct engaged in by an ocean carrier or a stevedoring operator so far as the conduct relates to the determination of terms and conditions of a stevedoring contract.

Note:          For stevedoring operator, see subsection (5).

          (3A)  The exemptions provided by this section do not extend to any dealings between stevedoring operators.

             (4)  The exemptions provided by this section do not apply in relation to subsections 47(6) and (7).

             (5)  In this section:

stevedoring contract means a contract between:

                     (a)  an ocean carrier; and

                     (b)  a stevedoring operator;

under which the stevedoring operator provides, or arranges for the provision of, stevedoring services to the ocean carrier in connection with cargo transported on international liner cargo shipping services provided by the ocean carrier.

stevedoring operator means a person who:

                     (a)  provides, or proposes to provide; or

                     (b)  arranges for the provision of, or proposes to arrange for the provision of;

stevedoring services in connection with cargo transported on international liner cargo shipping services.


 

Division 6—Registration of conference agreements

Subdivision A—Provisional registration

10.25  Application for provisional registration of conference agreement

             (1)  The parties to a conference agreement may apply for its provisional registration under this Part.

             (2)  The application must comply with the following provisions:

                     (a)  subsections 10.26(1) and (2) (how application is to be made and verified);

                     (b)  section 10.27 (copy of agreement to be filed with application etc.).

10.26  How application is to be made and verified

             (1)  An application for the provisional registration of a conference agreement must be:

                     (a)  in the appropriate prescribed form;

                     (b)  made to the Registrar in accordance with the regulations; and

                     (c)  accompanied by the appropriate prescribed fee.

             (2)  The application must comply with any regulations requiring its verification (in whole or part) by or on behalf of the applicants.

             (3)  The application may be made by a party to the agreement on behalf of the party and other parties to the agreement.

10.27  Copy of agreement to be filed with application etc.

             (1)  Subject to subsections (1A) and (1B), an application for the provisional registration of a conference agreement must be accompanied by:

                     (a)  a complete copy of the agreement so far as it is in writing (including all provisions of the agreement so far as they are in writing); and

                     (b)  a written memorandum that fully sets out the agreement so far as it is not in writing (including all provisions of the agreement so far as they are not in writing);

other than any parts of the agreement that relate to the minimum level of:

                     (c)  in the case of an outwards conference agreement—outwards liner cargo shipping services to be provided under the agreement or an outwards conference agreement that is varied or otherwise affected by the agreement; or

                     (d)  in the case of an inwards conference agreement—inwards liner cargo shipping services to be provided under the agreement or an inwards conference agreement that is varied or otherwise affected by the agreement.

          (1A)  The copy of the agreement referred to in paragraph (1)(a) need not include the freight rate charges in the agreement.

          (1B)  The written memorandum referred to in paragraph (1)(b) need not include the freight rate charges in the agreement.

             (2)  A document that accompanies an application for the provisional registration of a conference agreement must comply with any regulations requiring its verification (in whole or part) by or on behalf of the applicants.

10.27A  Copy of conference agreement to be given to designated peak shipper body

             (1)  If:

                     (a)  the parties to an outwards conference agreement apply for its provisional registration; and

                     (b)  at the time of the application, there is a designated outwards peak shipper body;

the parties must give the designated outwards peak shipper body a copy of:

                     (c)  the complete copy of the agreement referred to in paragraph 10.27(1)(a); and

                     (d)  the written memorandum referred to in paragraph 10.27(1)(b);

as soon as practicable after the application is made.

             (2)  If:

                     (a)  the parties to an inwards conference agreement apply for its provisional registration; and

                     (b)  at the time of the application, there is a designated inwards peak shipper body;

the parties must give the designated inwards peak shipper body a copy of:

                     (c)  the complete copy of the agreement referred to in paragraph 10.27(1)(a); and

                     (d)  the written memorandum referred to in paragraph 10.27(1)(b);

as soon as practicable after the application is made.

10.28  Decision on application for provisional registration

             (1)  If the Registrar is satisfied:

                     (a)  that an application has properly been made for the provisional registration of a conference agreement; and

                    (aa)  in the case of an outwards conference agreement—that subsection 10.27A(1) has been complied with, or does not apply to the agreement; and

                   (ab)  in the case of an inwards conference agreement—that subsection 10.27A(2) has been complied with, or does not apply to the agreement; and

     Â