Dwindling volunteer numbers put seafarers' rights at risk, charity says
Without volunteers at regional ports, seafarers would not be able to set foot on Australian soil between journeys.
The Mission to Seafarers charity in Australia is facing challenges as its volunteer base ages, putting seafarers' rights at risk. The charity provides essential services, including shore leave transport and welfare centres, for thousands of international seafarers who only get to step foot on land during their long voyages. However, with fewer volunteers, particularly younger ones, regional chapters like the Mission to Seafarers Portland are struggling to maintain their services.
The charity operates under Australia's adherence to the Maritime Labour Convention, which guarantees seafarers' right to shore leave, but the lack of volunteers could lead to a decline in the support they receive. Sailor Paul Gegremosa, who relies on the centre for relaxation and access to basic comforts, highlights the importance of these services for the mental well-being of seafarers.
Brief written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
