The Bulk Liquids Industry Association Limited (a non-profit company limited by guarantee) is the national association of companies and organisations involved in the movement of bulk liquids between ship and shore. Objectives: to liaise with relevent port authorities to improve the economics and effeciency of bulk liquids movements into and out of Australian ports to be an effective focal point and represent our members' interests relating to existing or proposed legislation, industrial agreements or awards and to provide a fast response capability in the event of waterfront industrial action to provide a forum for industry debate on relevent matters Origin: In 1979, a major industrial dispute arose on the Sydney waterfront concerning the transfer of bulk liquids handling from Port Jackson to new receiving facilities at Port Botany. At a meeting of companies associated with the import of bulk liquids, the Bulk Liquids Industry Association was formed and immediately addressed the problem. The dispute was subsequently resolved. Since then other disputes have been overcome with minimal disruption to the industry. We are now recognised as the voice of the bulk liquids industry on waterfront matters. The BLIA provides a forum for discussion via which members can obtain advice and assistance in addressing industrial issues such as labour disputes and port operations improvement. We highlight inadequacies in proposed legislation and regulations to the appropriate authorities. Achievements: Since assisting the smooth transition from Port Jackson to Port Botany for bulk liquids cargo handling, the BLIA has made significant contributions in other areas, including the following: A study commissioned in 1979 to survey members' future liquids cargo handling requirements through Port Botany. It recommended the immediate construction of a second berth, the cost of which would be justified by consequent savings of demurrage. The State Government subsequently delegated responsibility for the project to a consortium including the Maritime Services Board and major users of the proposed facility. Changes to pricing policies of the ports of Sydney and Melbourne have received BLIA scrutiny and input describing effects on all parties involved. Pricing policy continues as a discussion point between BLIA and the various port authorities. Establishment of recognition from government, industry, unions and other involved parties that BLIA provides a forum for discussion of all matters related to bulk liquid imports and exports, including industrial relations, transport and storage, health and safety and industrial waste disposal. Improvement of obsolete berthing facilities causing congestion in South Australia. Establishment of regular liaison with the Maritime Services Board of NSW and with the Port of Melbourne Authority to enable continual review of port regulations as they relate to import/export operations. This process has resulted in a number of improvements including: removal of restrictions on night time navigation in both ports; amendments to beam restrictions; removal of some restrictions on the simultaneous handling of hazardous cargoes. Following the August 1991 fires at Coode Island in Melbourne, BLIA has represented members interests in conjunction with the Australian Chemical Industry Council, firstly via the Coode Island Review panel and more recently via the Safer Chemical Storage Task Force as the State Government has sought to relocate the facility to West Point Wilson. The continuing value of the Association will depend on its ability to deal with port related issues as they arise.