Australian Commercial Marine Industry Releases Landmark Economic Study confirming 137,000 jobs and $25B contribution to Australia’s Economy
The Australian Commercial Marine Group (ACMG) today released the Australian Commercial Marine Economic Impact Statement (EIS), revealing the sector supports 137,262 jobs nationally and contributes $25.16 billion to the Australian economy each year, with $50.93 billion in total industry business output.
Commissioned by ACMG and prepared by independent economic consultants AEC Group, the report provides the most comprehensive assessment to date of the Australian commercial marine sector. It measures the industry’s direct, supply chain and broader economic impacts, including employment, wages and industry activity across tourism, logistics, manufacturing and trade.
The EIS is a critical benchmark for industry growth, with ACMG CEO David Good asserting that the study marks a pivotal step in strengthening the industry’s voice and ensuring its value is recognised in national decision making.
David commented: “This study provides hard evidence of the economic significance of Australia’s commercial marine sector. For the first time, we have a robust, independent benchmark that captures the full scale of the industry’s contribution to jobs, productivity and national prosperity. The EIS will help guide policy, investment and long-term growth.”
The EIS defines the commercial marine sector with clarity, ensuring the report accurately reflects the true commercial marine footprint. It covers passenger vessels, event and function boats, workboats, deep sea charter fishing vessels and tourist boats, and excludes vessels used primarily for leisure such as houseboats, as well as defence, cargo, freight and cruise ships.
The study found the Australian commercial marine industry generates:
- $50.93 billion in annual business output
- $25.16 billion in Gross Product contribution to the Australian economy
- 137,262 full time equivalent jobs supported nationwide
- $14.2 billion in wages paid to Australian households each year
The findings provide a strong evidence base to support government policy, infrastructure investment and workforce development across Australia’s marine industry. The report also highlights the importance of the sector’s supply chains, which extend across transport, tourism, advanced manufacturing, engineering and marine science.
Of note, the study highlighted New South Wales as the largest economic driver followed closely by Queensland. However, with the opportunities to be presented by the upcoming Olympic Games, Queensland is expected to surpass NSW if the comprehensive 2032 Marine Project currently residing with government is adopted.
ACMG is presenting the full findings today at the ACMG Great Barrier Reef Conference in Cairns, where operators, suppliers and sector partners have gathered to discuss the study’s implications for the future development of Australia’s commercial marine industry.
The Australian Commercial Marine Economic Impact Statement is available to ACMG members and stakeholders via the Australian Commercial Marine Group.
The fact sheet can be found in the Marine Business News Resources page, or click on the banner below to go directly to it.
Click here to view the report fact sheetFor more information about the Australian Commercial Marine Group visit their website HERE
About AIMEX
The Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) is the peak body for the marine export industry. The objective of AIMEX is to develop and promote Australia’s international competitiveness in the marine sector. AIMEX represents some of Australia’s most successful international brands, emerging companies and firms that showcase exciting innovation and technological development.
About Australian Commercial Marine Group
The Australian Commercial Marine Group (ACMG), created under the AIMEX and Superyacht Australia umbrella is the leading industry body supporting, developing and promoting the Australian Commercial and Defence Maritime Industry both nationally and internationally.
About Australian Commercial Marine Conference
The Australian Commercial Marine Conference is the leading forum for the commercial marine industry in Australia. First hosted in Sydney in 2024, the conference attracts vessel operators and owners, key stakeholders, industry leaders and delegates from around Australia. Featuring keynote speakers, dynamic panel discussions and engaging debates, the conference is complemented by exceptional opportunities for business development, networking and collaboration. www.commercialmarine.com.au/australian-commercial-marine-conference
