Australia is committed to ensuring safe shipping through efficient and trusted regulatory services and protecting the marine environment from ship sourced pollution.
Summary
- We lead global efforts to protect the marine environment and support cleaner shipping, successfully changing IMO conventions to prevent pollution and working toward alternative fuels.
- Our experts help shape standards for seafarers, navigation, emerging technologies, new fuels and more.
- We deliver world-class flag and port State oversight to uphold high standards in international shipping.
We work with other IMO members to improve environmental outcomes by raising shipping standards.
Australia has led changes to IMO conventions to prevent pollution, such as stopping container loss by securing cargo better and regulating the transport of plastic pellets.
We’re also working in the IMO to better regulate sewage discharges from ships and develop measures to decarbonise shipping.
Australia seeks to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by enacting:
- IMO conventions to prevent incidents
- The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI.
Australia works to stop ship-sourced plastic litter entering our seas by collaborating with industry to ensure they are aware of, and can comply with, MARPOL regulations relating to storage and disposal of equipment and waste.
We will continue to work in the IMO to address this pollution.
Australia has one of the world’s largest mixed-market economies and is the largest continental landmass surrounded by water.
Australia’s national prosperity depends on reliable maritime trade to, from and around the country, supported by vessels and operations that meet relevant international and domestic requirements.
Australia’s robust port and flag State control processes are essential to ensuring the safe operation of all vessels in Australian waters, protecting the marine environment and safeguarding seafarers and passengers.
Australia plays an active role in shaping the international standards that underpin safe shipping.
Through our technical and regulatory expertise, Australia contributes to the development and implementation of international maritime safety standards across areas including:
- vessel safety
- navigation
- seafarer welfare
- emerging technologies
- the safe introduction of new fuels and vessel operations.
This practical regulatory experience, combined with Australia’s strong international engagement, supports safe, sustainable and efficient shipping and reinforces Australia’s contribution to the work of the IMO.
Latest news
Australia for IMO Council
Category B 2028-2029 biennium
