Oceans sustain life on Earth — regulating our climate, supporting biodiversity, providing oxygen, food and jobs, and holding untapped potential for scientific and medical breakthroughs. Despite covering over 70% of the planet, around 95% of the ocean remains unexplored.
Oceans are important for the Australian way of life, with many communities enjoying the amenity and lifestyle of coastal environments and many Australians make their living from what the oceans provide. Oceans and coasts also feature in the dreaming stories of many First Nations people.
But the ocean is under pressure. With an estimated 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic debris floating in our waters, this vital resource is facing serious threats.
Oceans don’t recognise borders — they connect us all. That’s why protecting them is everyone’s responsibility, including those who work on the water every day.
Vessels play a vital role
Ships and domestic commercial vessels are required to meet strict safety and environmental standards to prevent marine pollution under Australian and international law. This includes:
- Reducing pollution from ships – AMSA enforces regulations to minimise pollution from vessels, including oil spills and garbage discharge.
- Preventing pollution from domestic commercial vessels – Domestic operators must manage waste responsibly and avoid polluting the marine environment.
These rules aren’t just boxes to tick — they’re practical ways of protecting the oceans that connects all of us. When vessels operate responsibly, they help ensure the oceans stay safe and sustainable for everyone — from coastal communities and future generations to the marine life beneath the surface.
AMSA in action
AMSA works with partners nationally and internationally to:
- support the International Maritime Organization’s net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target for global shipping
- improve waste management and recycling options for ships aiming to reduce garbage and plastic waste
- reduce marine debris, including abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear which is a source of plastic pollution in our oceans.
Let’s protect what protects us.
Learn more about how AMSA protects the marine environment.