New appointment to strengthen key maritime institution

The Albanese Labor Government has today announced the appointment of Mr Padraig (Paddy) Crumlin as a part-time member of the Australian National Maritime Museum Council, for a three-year term.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the appointment reaffirms the Government’s commitment to ensure Australia’s cultural institutions are best placed to safeguard Australia’s history.

“The Museum provides a key role in preserving, researching and showcasing our maritime history and heritage.

“Paddy has lived our maritime history for the whole of his working life.

“I know his expertise, experience and perspective will ensure the Museum is better placed than ever to showcase its important work for all Australians.”

Mr Padraig (Paddy) Crumlin was elected Deputy National Secretary of the Seamen's Union of Australia in 1991. When the Seamen’s Union amalgamated with the Waterside Workers Federation in 1993, he was elected as Joint Deputy National Secretary. Later, in 2000, he was elected National Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia following the retirement of John Coombs. In 2010, he was elected President of the International Transport Workers Federation (the ITF), representing 20 million transport workers across the globe and Chairs the ITF Dockers’ Section.

A long serving former Chair of Maritime Super, Mr Crumlin chairs a number of charitable and not-for-profit organisations. This includes the Tas Bull Seafarers Foundation, Hunterlink and the International Transport Workers Federation Seafarers Trust.

He also represents workers at the International Labor Organisation on maritime‑related labour governance matters.

In addition, Mr Crumlin is active in industry development and training, chairing Maritime Employee Training Limited and has served as a Director of Sydney Ports Corporation and a Councillor on the National Disability and Carer Council, which worked with government to formulate the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Find more information on the Museum here.