The maritime strategic fleet was born out of the government’s commitment to improve Australia’s resilience and maritime capability. The fleet will be made up of up to 12 privately owned and commercially operated Australian flagged and crewed vessels. These vessels will be available for requisition by the government in times of need.

The strategic fleet will strengthen Australia’s supply chains, enable the movement of critical cargo during crises and emergencies, and provide employment and training opportunities to improve Australia’s maritime workforce capability.