Newy 87.8 FM – The Albanese Government has released the Maritime Emissions Reduction National Action Plan (MERNAP), outlining practical actions government and industry can take to continue decarbonisation of the maritime sector.
The plan complements the Federal Government's $100 million investment in a new Clean Energy Precinct at the Port of Newcastle, which is expected to facilitate production, storage, distribution and export of clean-energy products including hydrogen and ammonia.
The precinct is forecast to support roughly 5,800 jobs during construction.
Australia's maritime sector employs nearly 29,000 people and contributes $3.8 billion to the economy annually. Stretching across ports, shipping, energy, domestic commercial vessels and skills and training, the MERNAP identifies key priority actions to support decarbonisation while recognising Australian shipping must remain competitive in the international market.
Priorities include supporting investment in port infrastructure and operations that accelerate decarbonisation, reducing regulatory burden for emerging maritime technology, upskilling the maritime workforce and ongoing collaboration with international partners.
The plan complements existing government programs including the $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program, the Green Fuel Bunkering Strategy and the $13.8 million Maritime Skills and Training Initiative.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the plan was vital in a nation where the maritime sector is responsible for 99 per cent of international trade.
"It also presents an unparalleled opportunity to be a low and zero-carbon energy exporter of choice internationally, while creating new jobs and industry within the sustainable maritime sector locally," Ms King said.
The plan followed consultation with the maritime sector, energy stakeholders and industry experts.
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