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The Australian government announced the long-standing exemption from the Coastal Trading Act will be extended until December 31, 2028.
It was last extended in August 2024 to December 31 this year and allows eligible cruise lines to continue carrying passengers between Australian ports.
Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said this will be the final exemption for cruise vessels as broader reforms to the Act are progressing and will provide longer-term certainty for the cruise sector.
King said the exemption will remain in effect while the government considers the final report of the Independent Review of the Act.
"Cruise tourism is an important driver of economic growth in Australia," King said. "We want the cruise industry to keep thriving and showcasing our country's diverse regions to both local and international visitors," she said.
Cruise Lines International Association Australasia Executive Director Joel Katz said dropping the need for a licence to carry passengers to and from Australian ports provides clarity for cruise lines, cruise passengers and the Australian tourism industry.
"Cruise tourism brings many billions of dollars in economic benefits to businesses and communities around Australia and regulatory certainty is essential to protect more than 22,000 Australian jobs that rely on the sector," Katz said.
He said the exemption sits alongside a comprehensive international and Australian regulatory framework governing maritime safety, security and seafarer welfare.
