Taskforce continues gaining ground in war on wrecks
In July 2018, the Queensland Government committed $20 million over 4 years towards removing derelict and illegally
dumped vessels from Queensland waterways. The Minister for Transport and Main Roads announced the establishment of a War on
Wrecks Taskforce (the Taskforce), comprised of Parliamentary and Industry representatives to make recommendations to the
government for a holistic response to these issues.
Investigation into the root causes of vessel abandonment is underway and the Taskforce plans a series of community
forums to discuss the next steps government can take in reducing the number of derelict vessels in our waterways and
creating a culture of responsible boat ownership in Queensland.
2020 community consultation forums
The Taskforce continues to work with Maritime Safety Queensland to conduct further consultation and detailed evaluation
and assessment of the recommendations across community, industry and government.
The Taskforce will carry on its successful community engagement and consultation process and meet with regional
stakeholders around the removal program and the discuss how to implement the recommendations.
We encourage you to come along to the 2020 consultation forums and join in the discussion about potential changes to licencing and registration:
War on Wrecks status
As at 30 June 2020, using $7.6 million of the War on Wrecks funding, Maritime Safety Queensland, along with partner
agencies and owners, have removed 609 wrecks and derelict vessels from Queensland waters. In 2019–20, we've been
removing an average of 3 wrecks a week. With just under 300 additional vessels identified either as derelict or at risk of
becoming derelict, we will continue to remove these rotting, unseaworthy and derelict vessels from our bays, rivers and
creeks.
Check out the latest War on Wrecks removals
View some of the recent removals by the War on Wrecks team.
War on Wrecks Taskforce Report
The Taskforce delivered its report (PDF, 1.63 MB) to the Queensland Government, which provides a
framework to develop a wholistic approach towards responsible boat ownership.
How you can help
Email us at WarOnWrecks@msq.qld.gov.au if you:
- know of the location of an unseaworthy vessel that is a danger to navigation or a threat to the marine environment
or public safety
- own such a vessel and would like to discuss ways of removing it
- know the identity and contact details of the owners of such vessels
- think you can help with suggestions to prevent vessels becoming derelict and abandoned in future.
