International Day of the Seafarer

The Australian Government acknowledges that today is the International Day of the Seafarer.

Australia is a maritime nation. 

More than most nations, we are dependent on seaborne trade. Shipping accounts for 99 per cent of the volume of our imports and exports of goods, including fuel.

Despite its importance to our nation, less than one per cent of Australian seaborne trade is carried by Australian ships, forcing our nation to rely on foreign governments and companies for our essential imports.

Today, we thank all our seafarers – past and present – and recommit ourselves to rebuilding Australian shipping, creating a strategic fleet and strengthening the opportunities and training for Australian seafarers.