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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.

Maritime Safety Queensland has been investigating the root causes of vessel abandonment and working with partner agencies and owners to remove or rectify derelict vessels around Queensland.

December 2020 update

  • 722 fewer derelict vessels in Queensland waterways as a result of the War on Wrecks program.
  • 430 derelict vessels have been removed by Maritime Safety Queensland and partners since the War on Wrecks began.
  • 344 vessels are still of interest. 

See some recently removed wrecks.  

Community consultation forums

The Taskforce conducted a successful community engagement and consultation process and met with regional stakeholders around the state. During these engagement sessions, the Taskforce discussed options for reducing the number of derelict vessels in our waterways and creating a culture of responsible boat ownership in Queensland.

The Taskforce held consultation forums in:

  • Cairns (1 August 2020)
  • Noosa (22 August 2020) 
  • Wynnum (12 September 2020)
  • Gladstone (28 September 2020). 

These forums focused on the removal program and the implementation of Taskforce recommendations. The Taskforce sought feedback on potential changes to licensing, registration and vessel identification. View a summary of the community discussions (PDF, 206 KB). 

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 holistic 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.
Last updated
08 January 2021