AUSTRALIA has been successfully re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, the only representative from the South Pacific region.
Elected for a 2-year period to the end of 2027, the reappointment allows Australian agencies to continue working on improving global maritime safety, environmental protection and innovation. Australia is a founding member of the IMO Council.
In recent years, Australia has been prominent in regional cooperation to improve ship safety, maritime incident response and communications and information services to support Pacific and Indian Ocean neighbours. For example, Australia actively supported establishment of the IMO’s Pacific regional presence office in Fiji.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said Australia’s representation on the IMO means continued involvement in helping shape maritime standards that will benefit all member states.
“The Government has made strong commitments to the maritime sector, including by advocating for seafarers’ welfare, fair treatment of workers and the elimination of exploitation and modern slavery,” Minister King said.
“This work is complemented by the Albanese Government’s efforts to support Australia’s maritime industry through the establishment of a maritime strategic fleet. An Australian-flagged and crewed strategic fleet will improve Australia’s future maritime capability and bolster resilience in times of crisis.”
Earlier this year, Minister King hosted IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez during his regional tour of the Pacific.
“We were able to showcase the strength of our maritime sector and deepen our partnerships across the region,” Minister King noted of the visit.
AMSA CEO Kaylene Dale said being re-elected to the IMO Council gives Australia the opportunity to continue shaping the future of global shipping.
“AMSA is proud to contribute strong technical expertise and practical experience, helping ensure the organisation remains transparent, inclusive, and responsive to all member states,” Ms Dale added.
“Our priorities include advancing safety, environmental performance, and innovation, while championing seafarers’ welfare and diversity across the sector. Through collaboration with our Pacific partners, we will keep driving resilience and sustainability for the benefit of all member states.