ICTSI’s VICT upgrades Koala service to strengthen Asia-Australia trade link

Victoria International Container Terminal (VICT), Australia’s fully automated container terminal operated by International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), has further strengthened maritime connectivity between Australia and Asia with the launch of the upgraded Koala service operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).

The service made its inaugural call at VICT on 4 October, directly linking the Port of Melbourne with key trading hubs in China and Indonesia. The inclusion of VICT in the service’s rotation underscores MSC’s confidence in the terminal’s world-class performance and reliability.

The weekly fixed-route service enhances supply chain flexibility for businesses serving Australia’s largest consumer market, providing shippers with improved access to southern and western regions.

The Koala service rotation covers Shanghai – Hong Kong – Jakarta – Fremantle – Adelaide – Melbourne – Jakarta – Shanghai. With Melbourne as the final major outbound port in Australia, exporters across Victoria stand to benefit from a direct, weekly connection to key Asian markets. The full rotation takes approximately 35 days, with seven vessels deployed to maintain schedule reliability.

“The arrival of the Koala service validates VICT’s key role as Australia’s preferred gateway for high-frequency, reliable shipping line services,” said Bruno Porchietto, VICT chief executive officer. “Our fully automated systems deliver superior berth productivity with minimal operational variability, giving stakeholders the predictability they need to plan their logistics around a consistent weekly window. We thank MSC for trusting our capability to meet the requirements of this service.”

As Australia’s most advanced container terminal, VICT’s fully automated operations ensure fast vessel turnaround and consistent scheduling—critical elements in maintaining dependable weekly calls. The terminal’s efficiency, combined with the Koala service’s expanded coverage, gives shippers direct and dependable cargo options that reduce transshipment and improve overall transit times.

The addition of the Koala service reinforces the Port of Melbourne’s status as a key hub in the Asia-Australia trade corridor, providing importers, exporters, and logistics providers with enhanced connectivity.

VICT continues to work closely with global shipping lines to expand service offerings and strengthen Melbourne’s access to international markets, further cementing its role as a premier maritime gateway in the region.