AMSA will visit Port Hedland on Tuesday, 24 June to speak to seafarers and industry about local and international issues relating to seafarers, along with the Navigation Act 2012 and cargo related issues.
Ship Safety Division General Manager Allan Schwartz said the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 had been in place for almost a year now.
'The shipping industry relies on seafarers to crew the ships of the world’s commercial fleets and the creation of the MLC seeks to ensure the rights and conditions of international seafarers on an international footing,' Mr Schwartz said.
'The focus of these forums is to address how seafarer welfare is being addressed within the MLC since it came into effect in full in August last year.
'Additionally amendments to STCW and changes to Marine Order 3, now the Marine Order 70 series, will give industry and seafarers an update on ship inspection issues.'
Domestic Vessel Division General Manager John Fladun said feedback from local seafarers will be sought in relation to Marine Order 506, national training and how best to use AMSA 2014 task books at a combined session in Fremantle on 26 June.
A subsequent session on 27 June will focus on the Navigation Act 2012 and cargo issues, specific to international regulations and measures to enable the export of bulk materials, carriage of cargoes and industry research and the challenges, pitfalls and training regarding the carriage of dangerous goods.
The forums are free and seafarers, ship owners, managers, shipping agents and seafarer welfare advocates are encouraged to attend.
Mr Schwartz said the establishment of the Australian Seafarer Welfare Council had been a positive step for government, the shipping industry, unions and seafarer welfare supporters to assist seafarers across Australia and international seafarers visiting Australian ports.
'There has been a concerted effort from all quarters to improve support for seafarers who spend time away from their homes and families to ensure a viable shipping industry.'
The first forum will be held at the Ibis Styles Hotel in Port Hedland on Tuesday 24 June. The second will be held at the Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle on 26 and 27 June.
Further information and to register your interest visit the Seafarers' Welfare website or send a message to the Council.