Government snares first vessel for strategic maritime fleet
The ANL Kokoda will become the first ship in Australia’s strategic maritime fleet, designed to reduce reliance on foreign shipping in times of crisis.
Years after first floating the idea, the Albanese government has established a strategic maritime fleet designed to reduce Australia’s reliance on international shipping during national crises.
Transport Minister Catherine King said on Thursday night the government had leased its first vessel, the ANL Kokoda, a large cargo ship that can be requisitioned during emergencies such as natural disasters and supply chain disruptions.
The government first announced plans for sovereign maritime capacity in 2019, amid concerns that many Australian-flagged vessels were being reflagged overseas so operators could use foreign crews on lower wages.
It argued the shift meant Australia should lease vessels domestically to rebuild sovereign shipping capability.
