AMIF welcomes new PM

AUSTRALIAN Marine Industries Federation President Gordon Howlett has welcomed Julia Gillard as Australia’s new Prime Minister.

“We congratulate Ms Gillard on her appointment and look forward to working with her to secure the future of Australia’s Recreational and Light Commercial Boating Industries,” said Howlett.

In March this year the Federal Government announced seven separate areas across Australia as “Areas for Further Assessment” under the country’s Marine Bio-Regional Planning Process. While the process is not yet complete, under the Rudd lead Government AMIF said there has been limited consultation with industry as to the structure the new marine zones will take.

“We urge Prime Minister Gillard to take the lead on the future of Australia’s Boating Industries and consult with industry before any decisions are made regarding Marine Park Zoning,” said Howlett.

According to AMIF the recreational and light commercial boating industries across Australia have long been a neglected industry sector.

Employing over 74,000 people in Australia directly and indirectly, the industry annually contributes in excess of $7.8 billion in boat sales to the Australian economy.

With a federal election looming AMIF is urging Prime Minister Gillard to listen to the voices of the Australian boating public in developing strategies for the future of the marine industry.