The council is seeking compensation following the failed introduction of the A$200 million (US$150 million) Integrated Cargo System (ICS) by the Australian Customs Service.

ICS was introduced on October 12 to replace a 20-year old legacy system, but technical glitches left wharves and air terminals choked with uncleared imports.

While repairs are underway, importers claim problems are likely to persist until the middle of next year.

Andrew Hudson, a Melbourne lawyer representing customs brokers and freight forwarders, is hoping the federal government will meet the compensation claims without the case going to court.

Hudson said the full extent of the compensation claims were not yet clear and would not be for some time.