New Campaign Promotes Responsible Boat Ownership in Australia

The 'Responsible Boat Ownership' campaign is a collaborative effort involving maritime regulators from Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea, as well as key organizations such as Surf Life Saving, Royal Life Saving, Australian Sailing, Paddle Australia, Marine Search and Rescue, the Bureau of Meteorology, and the BIA. This partnership ensures that the information provided is consistent, reliable, and pertinent to the boating community.

The initial phase of the campaign focuses on assisting individuals in making informed decisions when purchasing a boat. BIA CEO Andrew Fielding emphasized the organization's commitment to fostering a culture of safety within the Australian boating community. 'We want all Australians to have a safe and enjoyable time on the water,' Fielding stated. 'This campaign is about empowering boaters with the knowledge to make responsible choices. It’s a joint effort to foster a culture of safety that goes beyond just one week of the year.'

To support this initiative, the BIA has introduced the Marine Accredited Broker program, which sets criteria to protect and assure the best interests of the public. Additionally, the BIA has formed alliances with marine surveyors to encourage buyers to engage qualified professionals when purchasing boats, particularly used ones. 'We are taking these steps to help the public make informed decisions when buying a boat, particularly used boats, because a great day on the water is a safe day,' Fielding added.

This campaign underscores the importance of responsible boat ownership and aims to enhance safety and enjoyment for all Australians engaging in boating activities.