ISA Engages Industry at IFCBAA National Conference in Hobart

The International Forwarders & Customs Brokers Association of Australia Ltd (IFCBAA) recently hosted its National Conference in Hobart, bringing together leaders and professionals across the international trade and transport supply chain sectors. Industry Skills Australia (ISA) was represented by Senior Engagement Manager, Camilla Elmes, who participated in discussions and engaged with key stakeholders across the industry.

The conference, themed “Achieving Strategic Advantage in a Significantly Disrupted International Trade Environment,” explored the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Discussions spanned key priorities across the supply chain, with a strong focus on building resilience and improving operational efficiency in a rapidly changing global landscape.

A prominent theme throughout the program was the growing role of technology in driving productivity. Speakers highlighted the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital tools to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. The need to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities was also emphasised, particularly given the highly regulated nature of customs broking and freight forwarding.

Camilla Elmes contributed to a panel discussion alongside Colin Brame of 3DL Customs & Consulting and Nicole Couper of Crane Worldwide. The session focused on industry-led initiatives aimed at addressing persistent skills shortages, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts to build workforce capability across the sector.

A key message emerging from the conference was the critical need to promote careers in customs broking and freight forwarding. Engagement with schools, educators, and career influencers was highlighted as essential to raising awareness of opportunities within the sector and attracting new talent into the pipeline.

Ensuring the workforce is equipped to operate in an increasingly complex and technology-driven environment remains a priority. Participants noted that ongoing investment in skills development, alongside stronger industry collaboration, will be essential to inform training products and ensure they align with evolving industry needs.

ISA continues to support this priority through initiatives aimed at strengthening workforce pathways. This includes efforts to improve career information across the transport supply chain. and the progression of a Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Schools pilot program, designed to introduce students to career opportunities within the transport supply chain.

ISA congratulates IFCBAA on delivering a valuable and successful event and acknowledges the importance of continued collaboration in supporting the future of the industry.