The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has determined that CHSB Bulk Terminal Pty Ltd (CHSB) qualifies as an exempt service provider under the Port Terminal Access (Bulk Wheat) Code of Conduct for its facility at Geelong, Victoria. This exemption will take effect on December 18, 2025.

The ACCC's decision, documented in a final determination, highlights that CHSB will experience significant competitive pressure from other operators, specifically GrainCorp Operations Limited and Riordan Grain Services, at the Port of Geelong. The ACCC believes that this competitive environment will incentivize CHSB to offer fair and transparent access to its services for exporters.

As a result of this exemption, CHSB will not be obligated to comply with Parts 3 to 6 of the wheat port code, which includes regulations aimed at preventing discrimination against other exporters and the requirement to submit port capacity allocation systems for ACCC approval. However, CHSB must still engage with exporters in good faith and provide essential information, such as port loading statements and procedures.

The wheat port code was established on September 30, 2014, to ensure that exporters have equitable access to port terminal services, thereby promoting fair competition in the bulk grain export market.