Australia has been successfully re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, reinforcing the Albanese Government's commitment to advancing international maritime standards.
Elected under Category B for the 2026-27 biennium, this will allow work to continue on improving global maritime safety, environmental protection and innovation.
Australia is a founding member of the IMO Council and currently the only representative from the South Pacific region.
In recent years, Australia has demonstrated leadership through regional cooperation to improve ship safety, maritime incident response, and communications and information services to support our Pacific and Indian Ocean neighbours.
Australia also actively supported the establishment of the IMO's Pacific Regional Presence Office in Fiji, strengthening capacity-building across the region.
Australia's representation at the IMO means continued involvement in helping shape modern, future focused maritime standards that will benefit all member states.
The Government has made strong commitments to the maritime sector, including by advocating for seafarers' welfare, fair treatment of workers and the elimination of exploitation and modern slavery.
This work is complemented by the Albanese Government's efforts to support Australia's maritime industry through the establishment of a maritime strategic fleet. An Australian-flagged and crewed strategic fleet will improve Australia's future maritime capability and bolster resilience in times of crisis.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"Earlier this year, I welcomed IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez during his regional tour of the Pacific. We were able to showcase the strength of our maritime sector and deepen our partnerships across the region.
"Our national identity is deeply tied to the ocean. This election means we can continue to contribute to initiatives that will strengthen resilience and sustainability across the sector."
