Today, more than 200 maritime and logistics professionals at the frontline of the Australian and global supply chain gathered at Port Authority of NSW's Safe and Efficient Port Operations Forum (SEPOF) 2026, as the annual event featured its inaugural live operational simulation, and Harbour Master panel moderated by Shipping Australia.
Now in its fourth year, the forum is a rare opportunity for port stakeholders to share knowledge, exchange operational insights and strengthen industry-wide coordination to support Australia’s trade and global supply chain network.
Port Authority of NSW Chief Operating Officer Captain John Finch said Australia’s reliance on maritime trade meant strong coordination across the port and logistics sector is essential to support the nation’s economic prosperity.
“Around 99% of Australia’s trade moves by sea, supplying the essential goods that we rely on. Disruptions anywhere in the global supply chain have far-reaching impacts, and events like SEPOF help our industry to understand and respond to those challenges by exploring real-world scenarios and learning from operational experience,” Mr Finch said.
In a first for the forum, a port scheduling simulation gave practical insight into the challenges of coordinating port operations. The demonstration showcased the thought process of terminal operators, towage providers, marine pilots, and port authorities as a panel worked through the rapidly evolving scenario.
"Participants were given a vessel schedule and asked to make decisions from the perspective of different port stakeholders in adverse weather conditions, as resources became constrained, and operational challenges emerged.
"The exercise showed the ripple effect that adverse weather can pose to wider port operations. Through the panel's collaboration, delegates gained a practical understanding of the decisions, pressures and collaboration needed to keep trade moving safely and efficiently,” Mr Finch said.
The forum also featured its inaugural Harbour Master panel, bringing together the operational leaders responsible for some of Australia's busiest ports.
Port Authority of NSW Sydney Harbour Master Captain Myron Fernandes said Harbour Masters from New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania discussed the challenges shaping port operations around the country.
"Every port has unique operational challenges and risk profiles. While we all put our own lenses on issues, it is important that we recognise each other's views and work collaboratively to find solutions that deliver safe and efficient operations," Mr Fernandes said.
"Bringing together the entire cross section of our port community gives us the opportunity to build a shared understanding of the challenges we face and jointly explore opportunities for improvement."
SEPOF 2026 featured presentations and discussions from organisations across the maritime supply chain, including Port Authority of NSW, Ports Victoria, Flinders Port Holdings, TasPorts, Shipping Australia Limited, DP World, Svitzer, CMA-CGM, DNV Australia, Australian Transport Safety Bureau, TT Club, OSM THOME, Weatherzone Group, AAT Port Kembla, Ocean Network Express, and Oldendorff Carriers.
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