World Maritime Day

World Maritime Day History

World Maritime Day is a global observance established by the United Nations (UN) to celebrate the significance of international maritime industries and showcase their vital contribution to global trade, economy, and security. As a crucial aspect of the observance, emphasis is placed on the importance of safe, secure, environmentally sound, and efficiently managed maritime operations. This annual event encourages nations to appreciate and highlight the major role played by merchant shipping and related industries in international commerce, fostering economic development, and promoting sustainable practices.

The concept of World Maritime Day was first introduced in 1978 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized UN agency responsible for regulating shipping and improving maritime safety and security. In Australia, maritime industries hold significant importance due to the country's geographical location, with roughly 95% of imports and exports being transported via maritime channels. Australia's commitment to maritime safety, navigation and communication, and marine environmental protection is reflected in its involvement with the IMO since 1953. Moreover, the nation boasts a thriving maritime sector, which supports trade and economic growth and plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation's unique marine biodiversity and ensuring environmental sustainability.

Each year, World Maritime Day is observed in Australia with numerous events, workshops, and educational programs organized by maritime organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of the maritime sector, promote maritime careers, and emphasize Australia's role in shaping global maritime regulations. World Maritime Day is held on the last Thursday of September, with activities and events taking place nationwide, creating a platform for Australians to recognise and celebrate the vital role that international maritime industries play in our everyday lives.

World Maritime Day facts

• The theme for World Maritime Day in 2025 was Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity. In 2024 the theme was Navigating the future: safety first!. In 2023 the theme was MARPOL at 50- Our commitment goes on.
• Between 1990 and 2020, the volume of cargo transported by ships more than doubled, from four to nearly 10.7 billion tons.
• The three biggest shipping fleets in the world are owned by Greece, Japan, and Germany. The U.S is fifth.
• The Port of Melbourne is Australia's largest container port, handling over 2.5 million containers per year. Other major ports include Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.
• Australia's maritime industries contribute around AUD 40 billion annually to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Key sectors include shipping and ports, shipbuilding and repair, fisheries, and marine tourism.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Maritime Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Maritime Day

• Visit the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, which hosts exhibits on Australia's maritime history, including naval battles, shipwrecks, and coastal trade.
• Take a ferry ride across the iconic Sydney Harbour, taking in the sights of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.