Minister opens AMSA Canberra office

23 February 2010

AMSA’s new head office in Canberra was officially opened by the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government the Hon Anthony Albanese on Tuesday 23 February.

Although all Canberra staff have been in the building since early November, the official opening offered a chance to formalise the building as AMSA’s Canberra-based office accommodation. AMSA’s new modern accommodation recognises the importance of the environment and has been acknowledged for its energy efficient and green-friendly design. The office is bold and open, yet blends well with the surrounding environment of Northbourne Avenue.

Minister Albanese said, “As the national agency for maritime safety, environmental protection, and search and rescue services, you play an enormously important role in this country. The fact that we are the world’s fifth largest shipping country, and that many of our marine areas are unique and pristine, underscores your importance.”

“Last year, AMSA co-ordinated 151 rescues in which 619 people were saved. An average of almost 2 lives saved per day. There are people who are alive today because of the work of AMSA.”

Mr Albanese also spoke of AMSA’s work in creating a national maritime regulatory framework and how vital it is for ushering in a seamless, national economy fit for the 21st century.

“For too long, our regulatory systems have been State-based, encouraging multiple jurisdictions and the inefficiency which comes with it”, he said.

Mr Albanese highlighted the work AMSA does, both that which attracts headlines, as well as the work that doesn’t. The Minister said that as AMSA’s headquarters, the work conducted in 82 Northbourne will play a major role in the protection of lives and of the environment.

He said, “The work that you do is an important part in building a safe, strong, sustainable future for Australia.”