Australia’s maritime and ports sector came together in Sydney for the Ports Australia Biennial Conference 2026, bringing together industry leaders, port operators, government representatives and key stakeholders to discuss the trends and challenges shaping the future of Australia’s port and maritime industries.
Representing Industry Skills Australia (ISA), Anna Jerrems, Industry Engagement Manager – Maritime, attended the conference to engage with industry stakeholders and gain insights into the workforce trends, skills challenges and emerging priorities influencing the sector’s future.
Discussions throughout the conference reinforced the critical role Australia’s ports play in supporting supply chain security, operational resilience and critical infrastructure. As the sector continues to respond to changing operational demands, access to a skilled, adaptable and sustainable workforce remains essential to maintaining productivity and preparing for future challenges.
The growing impact of digital technologies, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) was a recurring theme across conference sessions. These technologies are transforming port operations and reshaping workforce capability requirements, reinforcing the need for training and qualifications to evolve alongside industry needs and regulatory expectations.
Another major focus was the energy transition and its workforce implications. During the panel discussion on new fuels, clean energy and the role of ports, industry leaders explored decarbonisation initiatives and alternative fuels, highlighting the need for new skills, emerging career pathways, and stronger collaboration between industry and government to prepare the workforce for future opportunities.
Collaboration emerged as a consistent theme throughout the conference, with speakers emphasising the importance of industry-led solutions to address workforce shortages, attract new entrants and support workforce mobility across the maritime and ports sectors.
The insights shared throughout the conference strongly align with the work being undertaken by ISA to understand current and future workforce requirements, support industry-led skills development, and ensure Australia’s maritime workforce is equipped to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Industry Skills Australia thanks Ports Australia for hosting the conference and providing an important forum for industry collaboration and discussion.
For more information about Industry Skills Australia’s maritime workforce initiatives, visit the ISA website.
