At AMSA, we recognise that caring for Country includes the marine environment. Our vision of safe and clean seas aligns the important roles that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples undertake in caring for our sea, coasts and air.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan 2022-24 provides a framework for us to use our spheres of influence to support the national reconciliation movement. An action in the plan is to "establish and strengthen mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations". One of the key ways we will achieve this is to continue to promote a culture of safety with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander domestic commercial vessel operators, supporting them to better assess and manage risks on the water.
Desley Thompson, our Advisor Safety Liaison - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, has cultural and ancestral connections to Mamu country of Far North Queensland and Tagalaka country of North West Queensland. In her own words:
"AMSA is committed to assist any of our mob that operate domestic commercial vessels around Australia - that includes Land and Sea Rangers, fishing businesses, and tour group operators. I hope that in my role I am able to encourage representation to ensure that mob have a stronger voice in maritime legislation.
"I can yarn with you about your Safety Management Systems (SMS) to make sure they are working properly, and about all the other ways to keep you, the crew and the vessel safe. We can also offer SMS training as a refresher or an induction for any new owners, masters and/or crew members."
AMSA is pleased to be heading in the right direction with our Reconciliation Action Plan, and we look forward to more progress with each year.