MEDIA RELEASE The Hon Anthony Albanese MP Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government 23 February 2009 AA048/2009

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES INQUIRY INTO MARITIME PIRACY I have asked the Inspector of Transport Security, Mr Mick Palmer AO APM, to undertake a comprehensive inquiry into international maritime piracy. Mr Palmer's inquiry will assess the current security arrangements covering Australian crews and ships, and is in response to the recent spate of piracy incidents. The inquiry will investigate the impact, or potential impact, of piracy on Australian registered and international trading ships including their crews and passengers.  It will also examine the effect of piracy on Australian maritime trade. In 2008 there were 293 reported cases of piracy worldwide - 66 of these occurred in South East Asia. The Australian economy is particularly reliant on the global maritime industry, with 99 per cent of its exports transported by sea. The Government is acting to make sure Australia has an appropriate framework in place to safeguard our maritime industry, our international trade effort and the many Australians who travel through international waters every year. The inquiry further demonstrates the Australian Government's commitment to address the worldwide problem of piracy and armed robbery at sea.  Last December we co-sponsored a resolution at the United Nations to strengthen international efforts to fight piracy. The Inspector will liaise closely with the United Nations, the International Maritime Organisation and other international maritime bodies to make sure Australia's efforts complement wider international initiatives. The Inspector will present his report by the end of September 2009. Media Contacts Jeff Singleton ( Mr Albanese's Office ) 0410 476 890   URL: http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2009/February/AA048_2009.htm