Aging volunteers threaten shore-leave services for international seafarers in Australian ports

Seafarers arriving in Australia are entitled to shore leave under the Maritime Labour Convention, but access depends on the charity Mission to Seafarers, which operates welfare centres and a free shuttle bus at ports such as Portland. Volunteer numbers in regional chapters have fallen dramatically, leaving fewer than 20 helpers whose average age is 80, including 91-year-old Ern Harrison who works multiple shifts. Approximately 5,000 crew members use the Portland facility each year, and many have not set foot on land for months.

Sailor Paul Gegremosa described the centre as his only chance to rest and obtain basic comforts. Calls for a government-funded levy, modeled on New Zealand’s 2024 scheme that provides about $1 million annually, are gaining traction, though officials say port welfare committees are responsible for meeting convention obligations.