Building Australia’s Future Maritime Workforce

In response to growing maritime skills shortages, Industry Skills Australia (ISA) is working in collaboration with industry to address current workforce challenges. ISA is leading a number of strategic projects, such as the National Maritime Skills Network, and Coordination of Sea Time. These initiatives seek to support the development of a skilled Maritime workforce.

Svitzer, a leading global towage provider, is a shining example of how industry is implementing recruitment and workforce development initiatives to address skills shortages. By actively engaging with schools to create a sustainable pipeline of future seafarers, Svitzer is helping to reshape workforce development in the industry. This forward-thinking approach is already delivering results. Nicole McAuley and Pyper Rowland, two promising young trainees, successfully transitioned from school-based traineeships last year to full-time trainee roles with Svitzer in 2025. 

Read more about Svitzer, view the article: Making Waves in Maritime: Svitzer Trainees Share Their Journey | LinkedIn

Currently, Nicole and Pyper are undertaking the MAR30821 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal) and will soon progress to the MAR30921 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal). Their studies are supported through an innovative hybrid learning partnership Svitzer has with the Australian Maritime College (AMC), allowing its crew to balance professional development with work and family commitments.

“We’re incredibly proud of Nicole and Pyper,” said a spokesperson from Svitzer. “Their dedication and eagerness to learn are matched by the outstanding mentorship provided by our Geraldton crew, who have embraced this new training model with enthusiasm.”

Their journey exemplifies the success of coordinated efforts to support new entrants into the maritime industry and help trainees achieve their Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) certification.

ISA has been working closely with industry to strengthen maritime training and qualifications. This has included aligning training products with the Maritime regulation known as Marine Order 505 (Certificates of competency – National Law). These updates ensure that Australia's maritime qualifications remain consistent to align with AMSA regulatory and licensing requirements. 

Looking ahead, ISA is guiding the establishment of the National Maritime Skills Network (NMSN), a national initiative designed to bring together training providers across Australia. The Network aims to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and promote excellence in maritime training. This initiative will build dynamic communities of practice focused on teaching, learning, and assessment.  

Working hand in hand with the National Maritime Skills Network, ISA is leading the Maritime – Coordination of Sea Time project to improve access to sea time for trainees, a key challenge in maritime training. In response to the Strategic Fleet Taskforce’s recommendations for better coordination, the Australian Government has committed to supporting efforts to investigate improved models for fast-tracking training berths. 

With these strategic efforts, ISA and industry leaders are not only addressing current workforce gaps but also laying the foundation for a resilient and skilled maritime future. 

Images courtesy of Svitzer