THE QUEENSLAND government has awarded more than $21 million in grants to support the state’s maritime workforce.

More than 40 grants were handed out under the Backing Queensland Maritime Jobs (BQMJ) program, which is administered by Maritime Safety Queensland.

The government said the investment would fund 11 new positions in the industry and support 32 training courses for current workers to develop their skills and progress their maritime careers.  

The 11 positions created by the employment program will be on-water maritime jobs with qualification levels to work on international trade vessels.

The goal of the BQMJ program is to create a larger and more resilient sector and to “reduce the reliance on foreign-flagged vessels” and the risks to the state’s supply lines.

A skills analysis conducted by MSQ found a shortage of specialised on-water jobs and a lack of qualified staff in certain marine operations.

As such, the BQMJ initiative aims to provide financial assistance through three grant programs targeted across maritime training, employment and coastal shipping.

Transport and main roads minster Mark Bailey said the government is determined to build a competitive and highly skilled maritime industry.

“Global economic conditions are highlighting just how important secure and reliable supply chains are for keeping costs down,” Mr Bailey said.

“Ensuring a strong domestic maritime sector will help our state to better respond to international challenges.

“It’s great to see these important employment and training opportunities that have been awarded they will be benefit not just local communities but the future of the sector.”

Maritime Union of Australia Queensland branch secretary Jason Miners thanked the government for its plan to strengthen and protect domestic seafaring.

“By investing into the workforce, the Palaszczuk government is creating opportunities for locals wanting to enter the industry, and ensuring our long-term viability,” Mr Miners said.

“We must reduce the reliance on foreign flag-of-convenience vessels and this investment is helping to make us more resilient and self-reliant.”

The BQMJ initiative provides financial assistance through three grant programs targeting maritime training, employment and coastal shipping.

Applications for the employment and training grant programs have now been finalised.