The Shipping Lawyer

Alison Cusack

The Shipping Lawyer Podcast is here to make maritime law make sense.

I’m a practicing shipping lawyer, and each episode breaks down the concepts, clauses, and commercial realities that shape this industry — from contracts and claims to charter partie and carriage. Whether you're new to shipping, building your confidence, or just need a refresher, you'll find clear, practical explanations you can actually use.

Most episodes are short and focused — built to fit into your workday. And when something major hits the headlines, I’ll occasionally drop a special edition.

Welcome aboard!

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S3 · E5
June 16 · 21 min
Season 3 - Episode 5 - Charterparties (Sign Fast, Think Faster)
The charterparty gets signed at speed. The ops team takes over. And the document sits in a folder until something goes wrong. In this episode, Alison breaks down how to manage charterparty risk well — even when you're moving fast. That means understanding your rider clauses, knowing what to do in the days immediately after signing, and using the life of a fixture to set yourself up better for the next one. What we cover: Why rider clauses are powerful — and why a poorly drafted one can create more ambiguity than the gap it was trying to fill The four questions to ask in a post-signing review (and why it's not a six-week exercise) The clause development file: a simple habit that changes your negotiating posture for every future fixture What the clients who manage charterparty risk well actually do differently Key concepts from this episode: Rider clauses — bespoke provisions that sit alongside the printed charterparty form. In most charterparties, they take precedence over the printed form where there's a conflict. Common inclusions: cargo-specific requirements, deviation provisions, off-hire triggers, bunker specifications, environmental compliance, and sanctions provisions. Post-signing review — a focused review of the charterparty after execution to map commercial risk. Not a due diligence exercise; a practical read with four questions: where are the commercial triggers, where are the asymmetries, where are the gaps, and what does the counterparty's performance obligation actually look like? Clause development file — an ongoing record of issues, ambiguities, and desired amendments built during the life of a fixture. The starting point for next time's negotiations. Work with Alison: If you need a charterparty reviewed — whether you signed last week or you're six months into an eighteen-month charter — Cusack & Co can help. 🌐 cusackandco.com.au📩 Reach out via LinkedIn or drop your details via the contact form: forms.office.com/r/3wV6PS9wPB Support seafarers: The Mission to Seafarers provides welfare support to crew around the world.🔗 missiontoseafarers.org The Shipping Lawyer is hosted by Alison Cusack, founder of Cusack & Co, a specialist maritime law firm. The podcast covers shipping law, maritime practice, and the commercial realities of the industry. Nothing in this podcast constitutes legal advice. If you have a specific legal issue, please seek independent advice. If you enjoyed this episode: please leave a review, subscribe, and share with colleagues in shipping, logistics, or maritime law. It helps more people find the show.
S3 · E4
June 9 · 32 min
Season 3 - Episode 4 - 100 Days in
THE SHIPPING LAWYER PODCAST Season 3 · Episode 4 | Show Notes Host: Alison Cusack, Shipping Lawyer We're 100 days into the Gulf Cargo Crisis — and the question has shifted. It's no longer about watching what happens in the Strait of Hormuz. It's about what you're doing with the time you have right now. In this episode, Alison cuts through the noise with a practical framework for triage: what's actually in your control, what professional advice looks like in practice, and how to set your business up for the rest of 2026 without burning out. Topics covered: force majeure and surcharge disputes, contract management, freight forwarding T&Cs, sanctionscompliance, the shadow fleet, UKMTO incident tracking, and the FMC's recent $1.9M penalty against a major carrier for improper detention and demurrage. 🌊 Mission to Seafarers — Donate Seafarers are still at sea. The crisis isn't over for them. If you're in Australia and want to make a tax-deductible donation before end of financial year, now is the time. International: missiontoseafarers.org/donate Australia (Victoria): missiontoseafarers.com.au/donate 🐱 Schrödinger's Cat — Wikipedia Turns out a lot of people haven'theard of Schrödinger's Cat. As promised, here's the link. Schrödinger's Cat — Wikipedia ⚓ UKMTO — UK Maritime Trade Operations The UKMTO tracks attacks, incidents, advisories and suspicious activities across the region. Incident reports referenced in this episode are available via their public reporting. ukmto.org Got a question about something covered in this episode? Dealing with a surcharge dispute, force majeure situation, or contract issue you need a second pair of eyes on? Alison works with importers, exporters, freight forwarders and logistics businesses across Australia. Get in touch Fill out Alison's contact form and she'll be in touch. Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alisoncusack If this episode was useful, the most helpful thing you can do is leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts — it helps other shipping and logistics professionals find the show. Search The Shipping Lawyer onSpotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. The Shipping Lawyer podcast is hosted by Alison Cusack. Nothing in this episode or these show notes constitutes legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please seek independent legal counsel.
S3 · E3
March 17 · 23 min
Season 3 - Episode 3 - Gulf Cargo Crisis (Part 2) - Crisis Management Is Not A Spectator Sport
Gulf Cargo Crisis — Part 2:Crisis Management Is Not A Spectator Sport We are 18 days into the Gulf Cargo Crisis and the most expensive strategy in freight law is playing out in inboxes everywhere — sitting on it and hoping it resolves itself. In Part 2, Alison Cusack, The Shipping Lawyer breaks down what the situation actually looks like right now, what surcharges and end of voyage declarations really mean for your cargo, why force majeure is not a magic word, and what to do this week. Every freight problem is solveable. The variable is what it costs. FULL DESCRIPTION : Day 18 of the Gulf Cargo Crisis. Ships are not transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Seven vessel incidents. War risk insurers have pulled cover. Surcharges are landing. Force majeure is being declared. Part 1 was the alarm going off — the documents, the contracts, the legal frameworkbehind the crisis. Part 2 is what you actually do about it. In this episode, maritime and shipping lawyer Alison Cusack covers: → Where the Gulf situation sits right now and what has changed since Part 1 → Why the backstops you think are running in the background aren't automatic — and what that means for you → Surcharges: the two questions inside 'do I have to pay this?' and the FMC and ACCC angle most people don't know to ask → End of voyage: what that clause actuallysays, the D&D clock, DG cargo, reefer cargo, and what happens when your cargo is dumped at a port you didn't plan for → Force majeure: why it is not a magic word, what happens when you pull the wrong lever, and why lawyers in the Middle East are begging people to stop → The free 19-page freight issue guide — builtspecifically for this situation → What to do this week — specific, actionable,no jargon Crisis management is not a spectator sport. Get in the game. Free freight issue guide: Start Here Free 15-min triage call: Book here This episode does not constitute legal advice. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE StartHere — free freight issue guide A 19-page decision tool for containerised cargo owners, freight forwarders, and charterers. Work through it, circle what applies, and arrive at a specific problem with a specific document list and a specific question. Download free: Free15-minute triage call with Alison Come with your problem statement. Leave knowing exactly what you're dealing with and what to do next. Book: Alison'sforce majeure article Loadstar Article Alison'sDaily News article on force majeure DCN Article Gulf Cargo Crisis — Part 1 (Season 3, Episode 2) Link to Episode 2 CONNECT WITH ALISON Email: alison@cusackandco.com.au LinkedIn newsletter: [LinkedIn link] Website: www.cusackandco.com.au WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK 1. Know exactly where your cargo is right now — vessel name, current position, any schedule changes 2. Pull your documents — Bill of Lading (master and house), marine insurance policy, sale contract, freight forwarder T&Cs 3. Set up a shared folder — save every email, every notice, every correspondence. You will need receipts. 4. Check your insurance covers the route the vessel is actually taking, not the original route 5. If you have received a surcharge notice — do not pay it and do not ignore it. Respond in writing, reserve your position. 6. If you have received a force majeure declaration — respond formally, ask for specifics, reserve your rights. 7. If your cargo is at an intermediate port and end of voyage has been declared — call someone today. 8. Work through the Start Here freight issue guide — it will tell you exactly what your problem is called and what to do next. This episode does not constitute legal advice. If yourmatter is urgent, contact Alison directly.
S3 · E2
March 3 · 47 min
Season 3 - Episode 2 - Gulf Cargo Crisis (Part 1)
Gulf Cargo Crisis — Update 1: What Cargo Owners Need to Know Right Now The Gulf is in crisis. If you have cargo on the water, or you're a freight forwarder with clients who do, this episode is for you. Maritime and shipping lawyer Alison Cusack breaks down exactly what is happening in the Gulf right now, what it means for your cargo, and — critically — what you need to do this week before the window to act closes. In this episode: The geography of the crisis: why the Strait of Hormuz leaves zero alternative routes, and what that means for global supply chains The Baltimore bridge collapse playbook — and why the Gulf is the same movie with a higher budget The Master vs House Bill of Lading explained: why cargo owners who try to deal directly with the carrier often hit a wall, and how to navigate the chain correctly The Four Ds of a Gulf crisis: Detained, Delayed, Detoured, Denied — the risk profile of each one The surcharge wave that is already being prepared by carrier commercial teams, and how to know whether you can pass those costs on Force majeure: why it is not a get-out-of-jail-free card, and the back-to-back contract mismatch that is already causing problems What to do if your cargo is already stranded Phase 1 action list covered in this episode:Master B/L · House B/L · Carrier T&Cs · Forwarder trading conditions · Marine insurance policy · Purchase contract · Downstream sale contract LINKS Issue 1 Companion Workbook (document inventory, force majeure matrix, surcharge checklist): Workbook 📩 Gulf Crisis Paid Newsletter Series — Issues covering contracts, the US picture from TPM Long Beach, and recovery options: ⚖️ Contract review and legal enquiries: alison@cusackandco.com.au 🌐 ITF Seafarers Welfare: itfseafarers.org🌐 Mission to Seafarers: missiontoseafarers.org 📰 Daily Cargo News op-ed — Gulf Crisis and Australian Cargo Owners: Link This episode is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a solicitor for advice specific to your situation.
S3 · E1
February 16 · 33 min
Season 3 - Episode 1: Chair Laura DiBella, Federal Maritime Commission
The tides are changing in ocean shipping — and Season 3 of The Shipping Lawyer kicks off at the top. Alison Cusack sits down with the new Chair of the Federal Maritime Commission, Laura DiBella, to discuss detention and demurrage, fairness, transparency, and the balance between enforcement and collaboration. Whether you’re a shipper, carrier, trucker, or just maritime-curious, this episode delivers insider insights on how decisions are made, whose voices get heard, and what success looks like under new leadership. Want to get in touch? Sent me an email alison@cusackandco.com.au
S2 · E12
Dec 23, 2025 · 25 min
Season 2 - Episode 12: Looking after yourself at Christmas (with Andrew from Lifeline)
Christmas can be a tricky time of year for those away from friends and family, whether at sea or other reasons. I decided to bring on special guest Andrew from Lifeline Australia to talk about mental health and some simple strategies for those who may need a few extra guardrails at this time of year. No different than a ship needing two tugs at a particularly tricky port. All content is intended for information and educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 at any time of day or night. You can also text them on 0477 13 11 14 or use their online chat service. If life is in danger, please call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Andrew is speaking as an individual and his views don't necessarily represent those of Lifeline or Lifeline Central West. Website and Socials lifelinecentralwest.org.au https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifelinecentralwest Facebook
S2 · E11
Dec 22, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Season 2 - Episode 11: MEPC / Net Zero Framework - Vote delay (with Declan Bush and Namrata Nadkarni)
In this episode of The Shipping Lawyer, Alison Cusack is joined by Namrata Nadkarni (CEO, Intent Communications) andDeclan Bush (Senior Reporter at Lloyd's List Intelligence) and to unpack the IMO MEPC delayed vote, why it happened, and what it signals for the future of maritime regulation. We cut through the headlines to explain the process, politics, and practical impact of the delay, including those parts that may not have made headlines (and probably should!). Join us for a discussion behind the discussion. This episode was proudly sponsored by Cusack & Co Academy Disclaimer: The opinions of the guests are their own and not representative of their employers. Namrata's linksAmbassador Albon Ishoda Speech "A Just and Equitable Transition in the Shipping Industry" COP28https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTnig2vqul8 Declan's LinksDeclan's news story on the IMO delay: https://www.lloydslist.com/LL1155147/IMO-to-delay-Net-Zero-Framework-vote-for-one-year Declan's story on the problem of ‘tacit’ v ‘explicit’ acceptance of Marpol amendments: https://www.lloydslist.com/LL1155120/US-tries-to-hobble-NZF-with-late-bid-to-change-acceptance-rules NYT on US bullying at MEPC/ES.2: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/06/climate/trump-climate-international-bullying.html Declan's podcast interview with Michael Liebreich on the cases for and against hydrogen-based e-fuels: https://www.lloydslist.com/LL1153323/Are-e-fuels-a-waste-of-time Michael Liebreich’s presentation on why there won’t be a hydrogen economy more broadly: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0Q9cuF8zKg UCL Professor Tristan Smith on shipping decarbonisation and the IMO process to date: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdUCidkeDto
S2 · E10
Dec 21, 2025 · 17 min
Season2 - Episode 10: Black Swans are dead, long live Black Swans!
In this episode, Alison Cusack challenges the old idea of “black swan events” in shipping. Over the last five years, the industry has accumulated enough knowledge, data, and legal frameworks that very few risks are genuinely unforeseeable. Using three high-profile incidents — the Dali collision with Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge (2024), the Ever Given blockage of the Suez Canal (2021), and the One Apus container loss (2020) — Alison explores how law, contracts, and risk management have evolved. This episode isn’t about panic or chaos. It’s about professional standards, accountability, and adaptability. In 2025, calling something a “black swan” can no longer be an excuse for being underprepared. Learn why modern shipping law rewards curiosity, agility, and proactive risk management — and why organizations that fail to adjust are already behind. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Black swans are no longer a get-out-of-jail-free card: If you were surprised, it’s likely due to a lack of preparation or failure to adapt, not impossibility. Dali & Baltimore Bridge: Electrical and propulsion failures were known risks — unforgiving margins, not unforeseeable events, triggered a legal and operational test. Ever Given: Chokepoint disruptions were predictable; the real challenge is adapting contracts and operational assumptions to systemic risk. One Apus: Severe weather is a foreseeable risk. Proper stowage, routing, and insurance are essential — claiming surprise no longer holds. The death of plausible deniability: With incident reports, regulatory guidance, and post-mortems widely available, remaining unprepared is a choice. 🎯 Who Should Listen: Shipping lawyers, P&I and insurance professionals Shipowners, charterers, and operators Maritime risk managers and compliance teams Anyone interested in how legal frameworks shape modern shipping resilience 🔗 Resources & References: Dali collision & Baltimore Key Bridge investigations This episode was proudly brought to you by the Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E9
Dec 20, 2025 · 27 min
Season 2 - Episode 9: Section 301 US / China Port Fees: Why the Pause Is Not the Point
In this episode of The Shipping Lawyer, Alison Cusack unpacks the proposed Section 301 US / China-related port fees — what they are, how they came to be, and why the current 12-month pause should not be mistaken for a policy retreat. These are not ordinary port charges. They are trade measures, applied through maritime access, with the potential to reshape cost allocation, routing decisions, and contractual risk across global shipping. This episode explains what’s really going on beneath the headlines — and why now is the critical moment to prepare. What Section 301 is and how it has been extended beyond tariffs on goods into the shipping sector Why China-built vessels and fleet composition became the focus of the proposed port fees How and why the industry pushed back — and what that reaction tells us about supply chain fragility What the 12-month pause actually means (and what it doesn’t) Who is likely to bear the cost if and when the fees are introduced Why silence or outdated drafting in contracts creates real exposure How to use the pause to build agile, resilient contracts, including: port cost and charges clauses change-in-law triggers route and port flexibility hardship vs force majeure governing law and dispute strategy The pause is not a reprieve — it’s a drafting deadline. When shipping becomes a policy lever, contracts need to be built for political risk, not just operational risk. If you work in shipping, trade, logistics, insurance, or maritime law — this episode is about being ready before the switch is flipped back on. 🎧 Follow The Shipping Lawyer for practical analysis of maritime incidents, regulation, and the legal issues shaping global trade. This episode is proudly brought to you by the Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E8
Dec 19, 2025 · 57 min
Season 2 - Episode 8: "Good Change" with Shevonne Joyce (Principal Consultant, electro: consulting)
What does good change actually look like — especially in industries where risk, legacy systems, and “we’ve always done it this way” are part of the furniture? In this episode, I’m joined by Shevonne for a practical, human conversation about change management — not the glossy framework version, but the kind that shows up as a junk room, a messy inbox, or a box of decisions no one wants to open. We talk about why real progress often starts when you hand over your “box of shame” — the contracts, processes, incidents, or problems you’ve been avoiding — and let someone help you sort through it collaboratively. Not to judge. Not to blame. Just to make sense of what’s there and decide what actually needs to change. Whether change is being forced on you by a crisis, an incident, or regulatory pressure — or whether things are going fine, but could be working better — this episode explores how to approach improvement without burning everything down. We cover: Why change doesn’t have to be dramatic or painful to be effective The difference between reactive change after a disaster and proactive “good change” How legal, operational, and people-led perspectives can work together Why avoiding the mess usually costs more than facing it early How collaborative problem-solving creates safer, more resilient outcomes This is a conversation about trust, curiosity, and improvement — and why sometimes the smartest move is simply inviting the right people into the room to help you tidy up what’s been quietly weighing you down. Connect with Shevonne on LinkedIn or visit her website. Episode proudly brough to you by Cusack & Co Academy Remember to link, share and follow!
S2 · E7
Dec 17, 2025 · 48 min
Season 2 - Episode 7: General Average (a deeper dive)
General Average, York Antwerp Rules, and Why the Jason Still Matters General Average is one of the oldest principles in maritime law — and one of the least understood until something goes wrong. In this episode of The Shipping Lawyer, we take a deep dive into how General Average actually works in practice, why the York Antwerp Rules matter more than many realise, and how a century-old U.S. Supreme Court case involving the vessel Jason still shapes modern shipping contracts. This episode connects the dots between General Average, the York Antwerp Rules, the New Jason Clause, and both-to-blame collision, showing how these concepts operate together as a coherent risk-allocation system — not isolated bits of legal boilerplate. What General Average is, when it applies, and why fault doesn’t matter (at least initially) What happens after a General Average declaration, including security demands and the role of the average adjuster How the York Antwerp Rules standardise General Average — and why the version incorporated into your contract matters Key differences between the 1950 and 2016 York Antwerp Rules, including crew wages, salvage, environmental costs, and interest The real-world origin of the New Jason Clause, named after the vessel Jason How the New Jason Clause separates negligence from General Average contribution Why both-to-blame collision clauses exist, and how they prevent circular and commercially unworkable outcomes How these clauses appear in BIMCO-style charterparties and bills of lading, and why they stop being “boilerplate” the moment there’s a casualty General Average, the York Antwerp Rules, the New Jason Clause, and both-to-blame collision clauses are not relics of maritime history. They are practical tools that quietly determine who pays, how much, and in what order when things go wrong at sea. If you’ve ever dealt with a fire, grounding, collision, or salvage operation — or you advise people who do — this episode explains why the contract wording often matters more than fault. This episode is proudly brought to you by Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E6
Dec 16, 2025 · 31 min
Season 2 - Episode 6: Case Study - ONE Henry Hudson
In this episode of The Shipping Lawyer, Alison Cusack breaksdown the late-November 2025 fire onboard the container vessel ONE Henry Hudson in the Port of Los Angeles — an incident that triggered a major firefighting and salvage response and ultimately led to a declaration of GeneralAverage. We walk through what happened, why it mattered, and thereal-world legal and commercial consequences for carriers, cargo owners, insurers, and brokers — especially on large alliance vessels with thousands of bills of lading in play. In this episode, we cover: The incident timeline — from the fire at berth to offshorefirefighting and the vessel’s return to port Operational challenges incontainership fires, including stowage access, hazardous cargo risks, vessel stability, and controlled offloading Why General Average was declared and what that means in practice The role of the Average Adjuster (Richards Hogg Lindley) and how cargo release works Alliance and trade lane complexity — why the issuing carrier on your bill of lading matters What cargo owners and insurers can expect next, including guarantees, deposits, inspections, and long timelines Practical takeaways for: Shippers & freight forwarders — insurance checks,documentation, and GA readiness Next episode teaser: General Average — the ancient maritime principle everyonedreads but few truly understand. Why does it still control cargo release today? Who actually pays — and when? And why do some shipments move quickly while others are stuck for months? In the next episode, we break General Average step by step,using real-world casualties like ONE Henry Hudson to explain how itreally works. Because in shipping, General Average isn’t rare. It’s just poorly understood. This episode was brough to you by Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E5
Dec 15, 2025 · 51 min
Season 2 - Episode 5: Captain David Ferguson (Cairns Harbour Master, MSQ)
In this episode of The Shipping Lawyer Podcast, I sit down with Captain David Ferguson, Cairns Regional Harbour Master (Maritime Safety Queensland, part of the Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland), to explore what it really takes to oversee one of Australia’s most diverse and environmentally sensitive maritime regions. Captain Ferguson begins by unpacking the day-to-day role of the Regional Harbour Master and the breadth of responsibility that comes with managing the Cairns port limits, from commercial shipping and cruise vessels to tourism operators and recreational traffic. With Cairns acting as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, coordination, communication and safety are constant priorities. We delve into the unique operational challenges of running a harbour so closely connected to a World Heritage listed marine environment. Captain Ferguson explains how marine safety systems, traffic management, pilotage and compliance frameworks work together to keep waterways both safe and efficient, while also protecting fragile reef ecosystems. The conversation also turns to tropical weather and cyclone preparedness, with insights into how ports, operators and authorities plan for severe weather events and minimise risk during the North Queensland wet season. Environmental stewardship is a strong theme throughout the episode. Captain Ferguson discusses how his team supports reef protection, sustainable maritime operations and responsible growth, balancing economic activity with long-term environmental care. We also reflect on the critical role the harbour and broader maritime network play in supporting the Cairns community and regional economy, before Captain Ferguson shares a memorable moment from his career that captures the uniqueness of working in Far North Queensland. Looking ahead, the episode closes with a forward-looking discussion on practical advice for young people in Northern Queensland considering a career at sea or in maritime operations. A fascinating insight into harbour management, marine safety and environmental responsibility in one of Australia’s most iconic maritime regions. MSQ Website MSQ FB This episode is proudly sponsored by Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E4
Dec 13, 2025 · 43 min
Season 2 - Episode 4: Brian Glick (CEO of Chain.io)
In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Glick, CEO of supply chain technology company Chain.io, to unpack a deceptively simple idea: having access to your data matters — but you don’t need all of it. We explore why data accessibility is more important than data volume, how too much information can actually slow decision-making, and where businesses should be focusing their attention to get real value from their systems. Brian shares practical insights from the front line of supply chain tech, including common mistakes companies make when chasing “more data” instead of better connectivity, clarity, and usability. This conversation is a reality check for anyone overwhelmed by dashboards, integrations, or digital transformation projects — and a reminder that the goal isn’t data hoarding, but smarter, more confident decisions. Check them out at Chain.io Thanks to show sponsor Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E3
Dec 11, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Season 2 - Episode 3: Angus Mitchell (Chief Commissioner ATSB)
In this episode, we welcome Angus Mitchell, Chief Commissioner of the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), for a candid and wide-ranging discussion on the role, impact, and future of Australia’s national transport safety investigator. Angus opens with a clear and compelling elevator pitch on what the ATSB actually does, cutting through the assumptions to explain its independent role in improving safety across aviation, rail, and maritime sectors. He also outlines what sits outside the ATSB’s remit, offering listeners a deeper understanding of what the organisation does not do and why that matters. We unpack one of the biggest public misconceptions about the ATSB, giving Angus the opportunity to dispel persistent myths and reaffirm the agency’s purpose. From there, the conversation shifts to the maritime world. A key point of the episode is the ATSB’s “no-blame” investigation philosophy. Angus explains why this principle is essential to uncovering systemic issues, fostering industry trust, and ultimately improving safety outcomes. The discussion then turns to the CMA CGM Puccini investigation, exploring how Australia can influence safety behaviour and change within major global shipping operators (despite the complexities of international jurisdictions). We also dive into the human element of transport safety. Angus shares how he views his role in shaping behaviours, regulation, and human-factor awareness across the maritime industry, and why culture and decision-making are central to long-term safety performance. To close, Angus reflects on his five-year term as Chief Commissioner and what he hopes his legacy will be—whether or not he’s reappointed. His answer is grounded, candid, and offers rare insight into leading a national safety organisation through a period of major change. This episode is an essential listen for anyone in maritime, transport leadership, safety management, or anyone who wants to understand how independent investigations drive safer industry outcomes. https://www.atsb.gov.au/ https://www.youtube.com/user/ATSBinfo
S2 · E2
Dec 10, 2025 · 42 min
Season 2 - Episode 2: Dorothea Ioannou (CEO of American P&I Club)
In this episode, we’re joined by Dorothea from American P&I Club, diving into the ins and outs of marine insurance and the ever-evolving shipping industry. We start with an industry overview, where Dorothea explains the critical role of a P&I Club and what sets American P&I Club apart in supporting shipowners and operators. She then walks us through emerging risks in shipping today, highlighting key challenges and regional trends that every maritime professional should know. A major focus is on seafarer welfare and abandonment, a pressing issue in the industry. Dorothea shares how the P&I community protects crew members and provides examples of recent initiatives making real progress. She also tackles some common myths in the industry, clearing up misconceptions that even seasoned professionals encounter. Looking forward, Dorothea offers practical advice for shipowners and operators on risk mitigation and smooth operations, and shares her perspective on where the P&I industry is headed in the next 5–10 years. We wrap up with her key takeaway—a message every listener can carry into their own maritime journey. Tune in for a conversation that’s both insightful and actionable, whether you’re new to shipping or a seasoned professional navigating the waters of marine insurance. This episode was proudly sponsored by Cusack & Co Academy
S2 · E1
Dec 9, 2025 · 46 min
Season 2 - Episode 1: Steven Jones and the Secret Santas of the Sea
Episode 1 — Steven Jones and The Secret Santas of the Sea In the kickoff to our 12 Days of Christmas special, we sit down with Steven Jones, founder of the Seafarers Happiness Index and place front and centre Seafarers - the true Secret Santas of the Sea. Steven shares the story behind the creation of the Index, why measuring seafarer wellbeing matters more than ever, and the realities facing crew members during the holiday season. We explore the human side of life at sea, the challenges that often go unseen, and how small acts of support can make a meaningful difference for those keeping global trade moving. This episode sets the tone for a season dedicated to people, purpose, and the spirit of giving across the maritime world. Follow Steven's "Make Maritime Matter Again" on LinkedIn: Or find out more about the Seafarers Happiness Index Note: we had some comms issues, so if the audio glitches we do apologise, but note that it gives you a slight insight into the comms experience of seafarers! Podcast proudly sponsored by Cusack & Co Academy
S1 · E9
Oct 5, 2025 · 25 min
Episode 9 - Who is picking up the bill?
In this episode, we move beyond tariffs to explore the fine print that truly shapes global trade — shipping contracts and Incoterms®. These aren’t just technical details; they’re the backbone of every international deal, deciding who pays for what, who carries the risk, and how companies can protect themselves when new tariffs or disruptions hit. We break down: The key elements of a solid shipping contract. How Incoterms® define responsibilities between buyers and sellers, and how choosing the wrong one (like DDP instead of FOB) can lead to unexpected tariff costs. Real-world scenarios where mismatched contracts and Incoterms left companies exposed to sudden tariff hikes, insurance gaps, and delivery disputes. Practical steps to align your contracts and Incoterms to reduce risk, build flexibility, and protect your margins. You’ll learn how contracts and Incoterms work together as a risk-management toolkit — and why a well-written clause can save your business thousands when trade policies or tariffs change overnight. Key takeaway: “Contracts set the rules, Incoterms set the responsibilities — and tariffs test how well you’ve written both.” Listen if you’re: An importer/exporter managing international shipments A freight forwarder or logistics professional A business owner navigating global supply chains Or anyone who wants to understand how trade agreements translate into real-world risk
S1 · E8
Sep 8, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
Episode 8: Tariffs (Everything Old is New Again) - with special guest
What do tariffs really mean for global trade, shipping, and your wallet? In this episode, I sit down with a former OECD economist to unpack the true impact of tariffs — far beyond the political headlines. We cover: 🔹 Why tariffs act more like a hidden tax on consumers in the long run 🔹 How governments use tariffs as bargaining chips in trade wars 🔹 The ripple effects on shipping, logistics, and global supply chains 🔹 Lessons from history — when tariffs backfired and reshaped economies If you’ve ever wondered why your goods cost more, why supply chains get disrupted, or how trade policy actually works in practice, this conversation will give you the insider perspective. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more deep dives into law, economics, and trade. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share if you found this useful. Peter's Linkedin
S1 · E7
Sep 1, 2025 · 20 min
Episode 7: De Minimis Ends
Welcome to Part 1 of our three-part series on global shipping shocks. In this episode, we unpack the U.S. decision to end the de minimis exemption — a policy that previously allowed small packages under $800 to enter duty-free. We explore: What de minimis was and why it existed. The impact on consumers and Australian businesses, from higher costs to canceled U.S. orders. Global reactions, including over 25 countries pausing shipments to the U.S. Tariffs, processing fees, and practical steps for exporters navigating the new landscape. This episode lays the foundation for Part 2, where we’ll speak with a former OECD economist, and Part 3, where we dive into contractual strategies to protect against tariffs. Listen in to understand how small parcels are now having a big global impact — and what businesses and consumers can do to adapt.

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