AUSTRALIA has been re-elected to Category B of International Maritime Organization following a meeting of the IMO Council in London.
Deputy Prime Minister and infrastructure minister Michael McCormack said Australia’s re-election reflected our standing as a significant player in the global maritime sector.
Category B is made up of 10 IMO Member States with the largest interest in global seaborne trade.
“Australia is the world’s largest bulk commodities exporter, with 99% of our international trade by volume carried by sea and a search and rescue area which covers one-tenth of the Earth’s surface,” Mr McCormack said.
“Australia will continue its work with the IMO to build a more modern, innovative and responsive organisation able to address pressing maritime priorities and the rapid pace of technological change.”
Foreign Affairs minister Marise Payne said the re-election to Category B of the IMO Council would allow Australia to continue to build on decades of positive engagement with the international maritime community.
“Australia has developed a reputation for working across the IMO to develop shipping standards which are fair, effective and sustainable,” Senator Payne said.
“Through our role on the IMO Council, the Federal Government will do our part to ensure international shipping is safe, reliable and efficient and protects the marine environment so all countries can share the benefits of a strong international shipping sector.”
Australia is a founding member of the IMO and has been an elected member of the Council since 1985.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority led Australia’s campaign for re-election, supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
