News
02.12.11
Australia has been re-elected to second place on the Council of
the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reflecting the
nation's role as a key voice in international shipping.
The result formally recognises Australia's commitment to the IMO
and its important work in international maritime safety, security
and pollution prevention.
Australia was elected equal second from our previous position of
18 at the IMO's 27th Assembly in London which meets every two
years.
The Gillard Government's recently announced shipping reforms,
Australia's strong record on maritime safety, environmental
protection of the sea and the role played by AMSA were key factors
in this outstanding result.
Australia plays a significant role on the Council, representing
the fourth largest shipping task in the world, with most of these
vessels transiting close to significant natural marine and coastal
habitats.
John Dauth, Australian High Commissioner to the UK, was
appointed last year by the Government as Australia's first
Permanent Representative to the IMO.
Australia is one of few countries to have served for over 40
years on the Council since the inception of the IMO in 1959, in
recognition of the leadership Australia has provided in the
Asis/Pacific region.
The IMO is a specialised agency of the United Nations with
responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the
prevention of marine pollution by ships. For more information
visit: www.imo.org.