Key findings from the Maritime Emissions Reduction National Action Plan released this week include:
- The maritime sector is diverse and distributed
- Australia is in a unique position in the Indo-Pacific region and has the potential to be a leader in both green energy exports and maritime decarbonisation
- Actions taken now will support Australia’s continued trade competitiveness
- An orderly transition now will cost less than a late, hurried change to meet legislated emissions reduction commitments
- Active participation in global initiatives is an accelerator for Australia’s own maritime decarbonisation
- Upskilling and reskilling the maritime workforce are essential for the safe management of new fuels and technologies
- The energy–port–shipping nexus is the core of a holistic approach to maritime decarbonisation; advancements in one area support and enhance progress in others
The Commonwealth government then set out a variety of policy aims:
- Action 1.1: Support increased green energy exports; the Australian Government will further promote and support the use of low carbon fuels in shipping to reduce the carbon footprint of transporting Australia’s green energy exports
- Action 1.2: Encourage investment in research and development for maritime innovation
- Action 2: Enhance port infrastructure and operations to support maritime decarbonisation; encouragement and support will be given for investment in storage and bunkering for low carbon fuels
- Action 3: Continue IMO engagement & expand green and digital shipping corridor activities; the Australian Government will maintain engagement and participation in the IMO to influence the development of international regulations for decarbonisation; the Department will expand its involvement in green and digital shipping corridors by collaborating with international partners to trial new technologies and operational practices
- Action 4.1: Support demand aggregation through collaboration among regional operators; the Australian Government will promote collaborative partnerships between regional organisations and operators to aggregate demand for low emission technologies and fuels
- Action 4.2: Support first movers by reducing regulatory barriers and mitigating costs
- Action 5: Ensure timely and effective upskilling of the maritime workforce; Industry Skills Australia (ISA) will work with AMSA, the maritime industry and training organisations to identify and help deliver the skills & training needed to support decarbonisation of the maritime sector
