BIA calls on Governments to back Australia's marine manufacturing

Australian designed and built Maritimo M50 © Remco Jansen

The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) is urging all levels of Australian government to strategically back the nation's world-class marine manufacturing and recreational boating sector, warning that a critical skills shortage is threatening the industry's massive economic potential.

The call comes as BIA releases its latest industry data, highlighting the recreational marine sector's status as a major contributor to the national economy and one of Australia's leading recreational pastimes with millions of Australians participating in recreational boating annually.

"The message to Canberra and our State capitals is clear: Australia's marine sector needs backing, not just recognition," said BIA CEO Andrew Fielding. "We are manufacturing world-class boats and equipment right here on Australian shores, yet the sector often goes unrecognised for its significant economic and social value. Governments must view us as a strategic pillar of the Blue Economy, not simply as a transport safety issue."

BIA Victoria CEO Steve Walker said, "We echo Andrew's comments here in Victoria. We have great history and legacy, high quality boat building, and a real loyalty to locally manufactured brands. However, the threat is real, and without the provision of support, so as to sure up the skilled workforce, we do have grave fears about losing our prized manufacturing."

Economic Powerhouse Facing a Skills Crisis

The BIA highlights the significant scale of the industry, which:

• Generates more than $10.2 billion in annual direct turnover (2024-2025 data).
• Employs over 35,000 people directly and indirectly across the nation
• Is comprised of more than 2,000 businesses operating across the recreational and commercial marine sectors.
• Will have more than 1 million registered vessels by 2030, and a similar number of craft not required to be registered such as small paddle and sailcraft.
• When the total spend on activity related all watercraft is expected to reach $20 billion annually.

"Our most critical immediate priority is addressing the urgent skills shortage across key trades," Mr Fielding said. "We have an immediate need for skilled workers like boatbuilders, shipwrights, marine mechanic technicians and trimmers. Without targeted government investment in trade pathways, apprenticeships, and retention programs, our manufacturing capability will stall, jeopardising the jobs and economic activity that support exports and communities across the country."

The BIA is calling on governments to partner with the industry to implement the strategic priorities outlined in the National Recreational Boating Statement 2025, including specific measures to:

• Recognise the marine sector as a key component of Australia's manufacturing base and Blue Economy.
• Invest in trade training to reduce industry skill shortages.
• Invest in infrastructure to support safe and convenient access for all ages and abilities.

"We are a nation of water enthusiasts, with more than one in five Australian households owning a boat or some form of watercraft. The industry's potential is enormous, but that potential is conditional on government support that provides the strategic backing we need to grow our workforce, ensure policies are appropriate, invest in infrastructure and secure our future," Mr Fielding concluded.

For more information read the National Recreational Boating Statement.