Stronger laws to combat aviation and maritime security
by Ernie Davitt, National Affairs Editor, ASM
The Federal Government has legislated new laws to strengthen Australia’s maritime and aviation security regimes against threats of terrorism and other criminal behaviour.
The Transport Security Amendment (2008 Measures No. 1) Bill 2008, introduced into Parliament during the Spring sittings, is aimed at:
- establishing nationally consistent mapping standards for maritime security plans. Clear and accurate mapping of port boundaries and security zones are key elements in an effective maritime security regime;
- clarifying the security obligations of foreign-regulated ships visiting an external Australian territory, ensuring industry participants fully understand their security obligations;
- providing the Government with greater flexibility to respond to changes in Australia’s security environment and the operational requirements of industry by allowing maritime and offshore security plans to be approved for a period of up to five years (but not less than 12 months) rather than the current fixed five-year period; and
- giving greater flexibility to industry in the fulfillment of their security obligations by recognising current approaches to the documentation of security planning within the aviation and maritime industries.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Anthony Albanese, said during the second reading of the new legislation that, when enacted, it would amend the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 and the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004.
“Together these Acts implement preventive security regimes across the maritime and aviation sectors; give effect to Australia’s international obligations; and help safeguard against and respond promptly to threats of terrorism and other criminal behaviour,” Mr Albanese said.
“Australia’s maritime and aviation industries are critical to Australia’s economic prosperity, both now and into the future – they are our gateways to the global economy.
“Sea freight accounts for 76 per cent of the value of Australia’s international trade and our offshore oil and gas operations are valued at $22.7 billion. The aviation industry directly supports some 50,000 jobs.
“By strengthening our security laws we are helping to safeguard these vital industries.”
Mr Albanese said the legislation was an example of the strong partnership between the Government and Australia’s maritime, offshore and aviation industries – one based on consultation and cooperation.
“Australia’s economy relies heavily on the safe and secure movement of billions of dollars in imports and exports. As the international shipping industry continues to grow, so does its importance to the Australian economy. Similarly, the offshore oil and gas industry also contributes strongly to Australia’s prosperity,” he told Parliament.
“In our skies, the aviation industry plays a key role in connecting Australia with the world and Australians with each other. Whether moving tourists, families, freight or business people, the aviation industry is essential to the efficient operation of the Australian economy.
“More than ever, these industries underpin Australia’s economic growth and serve as the nation’s gateways to the global economy. Given this significance, security is an important consideration.
“The Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 implements a preventive security regime to enhance security at ports, port facilities, ships and offshore facilities.
“It gives effect to Australia’s international obligations under the International Maritime Organisation’s International Ship and Port Facility Security Code and under chapter 11-2 of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention 1974. The Act establishes a scheme which safeguards against unlawful interference with maritime transport and offshore facilities.”
A copy of Mr Albanese’s second reading speech can be downloaded at
http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/speeches/2008/AS25_2008.htm