Australia proudly joins the international community in celebrating the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) World Maritime Day.
Our vast oceans connect us through trade, provide food and livelihoods, and are home to some of the most extraordinary ecosystems on Earth.
The 2025 theme, Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity, highlights the global mission to reach a balance between our reliance on the world’s oceans and the critical need to safeguard them from human impacts.
Australian Maritime Safety Authority CEO Kaylene Dale says shipping has a central role in achieving the right balance.
“With 99% of Australia’s international trade transported by sea, shipping is our connection to the world. We also have some of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet. We are committed to innovation that supports the sustainability of shipping, both environmentally and operationally.
“Australia is proud to stand alongside the IMO and our global partners in tackling the great challenges of our time. From tackling plastic pollution, preventing marine spills, and curbing greenhouse gas emissions, we are helping to shape a future where commerce and environmental stewardship go hand in hand,” Ms Dale said.
Australia is also deeply invested in global initiatives and innovations, including enhancing navigational safety with real-time data and reducing air emissions through optimised route planning.
Australia is accelerating maritime decarbonisation through a green and digital shipping corridor with Singapore and looking into the feasibility of a similar corridor with the Republic of Korea — a major step towards the future of sustainable maritime transport in the region.
“At home, we are working across government and industry to accelerate the uptake of cleaner fuels and green technologies, improve ship’s waste recycling, and safely integrate offshore windfarms into our maritime environment.
“True sustainability also means caring for people. Seafarers are at the helm of this industry, and their wellbeing and safety must always come first. That’s why AMSA is unwavering in our commitment to uphold the Maritime Labour Convention and the Port State Control regime,” Ms Dale said.
This evening, Australia joins nations around the globe in lighting up landmarks in blue—from Australia House in London to lighthouses along our vast coastline—as a beacon of shared responsibility and commitment.
The IMO sets global standards for safe, secure and environmentally responsible shipping. Australia is seeking re-election to Category (b) of the IMO Council for the 2026–27 biennium. Learn more about Australia’s role at the IMO at amsa.gov.au/AUSatIMO
