Mr Brandis QC delivered the cheque to the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr Kitack Lim on Friday 11 October at IMO Headquarters in London.
The Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) is designed to assist developing countries to implement international maritime rules and standards consistent with the IMO's aims for safe, sustainable and environmentally sound shipping.
Australia has requested that our donation be used to assist Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States to participate in future IMO meetings, including the Maritime Safety Committee and Marine Environment Protection Committee.
The Asia Pacific region is home to a number of Small Island Developing States and by giving this donation Australia hopes to help our neighbours to take a greater part in the important international policy discussions of the IMO. All nations, including Australia, benefit from strengthening consistent implementation of IMO standards in our region.
Australia has donated this money as an alternative to conducting traditional campaign activities for the upcoming IMO Council elections. As a proud sponsor of proposed reforms to make the IMO more transparent and accessible, Australia hopes this donation will begin a new tradition among IMO Member States running for election to Council.
Australia has re-nominated for category (b) of the IMO Council, which is for states with the largest interest in international seaborne trade. Australia has a strong commitment to developing shipping standards that are fair and effective. We also have a demonstrated commitment to ensuring that the IMO can meet the new challenges arising from emerging technology, global trade expansion, and environmental developments.