Ports Australia has begun engaging with our neighbours in the Pacific as part of our goal to better connect the sector. While we are focused on better connecting Australian ports and the broader transport sector that interacts with ports, we consider there are learnings that can be shared among Australia and Pacific ports that can improve trade, build skills, work on the sustainability of our region and support the development of global regulations that impact our region.

Ash Sinha, our Policy & Operations Director was recently in Samoa for the 44th Pacific Maritime Transport Alliance conference to discuss issues such as the IMO 2020 low sulphur fuel regulatory impacts, building of resilient infrastructure in the face of climate change and Ports Australia's online ports community network that works to improve the operations of member ports around Australia and potentially the Pacific. Our online network is highly valued by the Membership as it provides for interactive discussions, including through video conferences, while facilitating the development of improved operations across Australia's ports.

The Conference was opened by the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi who spoke on building ports that can service the community well into the future and having a transparent dialogue with community on developments that impacts them.

The Conference heard about the developments across several Pacific ports and from industry experts including some Ports Australia Associate Members - Cardno, Hall Contracting, Liebherr and the TT Club.  The Port of Newcastle also presented on environmental projects that have improved operations at the port, incorporated sustainable management practices and reduced operational impact on marine life within the port boundary.

The Conference aims to promote regional cooperation, friendship and understanding between member ports and port users through mutual alliances and the exchange of knowledge as well as the dissemination of information useful to port owners, operators and users of port services. It also aims to promote measures to increase efficiency and safety and to facilitate the harmonious development of ports in the Pacific region.

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