Journal article
Strengthening ocean literacy: marine science education and training to ensure Australia's blue future
Australian journal of maritime and ocean affairs, Vol.First Online, pp.1-24
03/05/2026
Metrics
1 Record Views
Abstract
This white paper sets out a national vision for advancing ocean literacy in Australia and outlines the role of marine science in fostering an informed, engaged society capable of addressing the challenges and opportunities of our changing oceans. As environmental pressures intensify, and marine resource demands increase, Australians’ capacity to engage with ocean issues, understand risks and opportunities, and participate in marine decision-making has never been more urgent. Marine science will play a central role in building ocean literacy by delivering credible, actionable science, and strengthening education and training systems that enhance understanding of, and connection to, the ocean. Our vision identifies three key enablers: 1/ enhancing ocean literacy for all Australians; 2/ credible, actionable and co-produced marine science; and 3/ future-ready marine science education and training that builds a skilled, adaptable workforce for the blue economy. Building on existing international efforts and frameworks, we outline current gaps, barriers, and opportunities, and make recommendations for coordinated national action, including the development of a National Ocean Literacy Strategy to drive progress. This paper calls for national leadership and cross-sector collaboration. Our vision is to empower all Australians to make informed, responsible choices that contribute to a resilient and thriving future.
Details
- Title
- Strengthening ocean literacy: marine science education and training to ensure Australia's blue future
- Creators
- Prue Francis - Deakin UniversityRachel Kelly - University of TasmaniaLouise Swanson - Coffs Harbour City CouncilTanveer M. Adyel - MIT UniversityBenjamin Arthur - Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research OrganisationKirsten Benkendorff - Southern Cross UniversityMelanie J. Bishop - Macquarie UniversityHelen Bostock - The University of QueenslandMarnie L. Campbell - Edith Cowan UniversityEmma Church - University of TasmaniaCorrine Condie - CSIRO Oceans and AtmosphereVaibhavi Dwivedi - University of TasmaniaMichelle Dyer - Great Barrier Reef Marine Park AuthorityMatthew England - UNSW SydneyLiam Fullbrook - University of TasmaniaCharlie Huveneers - Flinders UniversityMalcolm Johnson - Sustainability InstituteBrianna Le Busque - The University of AdelaideRebecca R. Mcintosh - National Student Clearinghouse Research CenterAmelie Meyer - University of TasmaniaBenjamin Mos - The University of QueenslandJana Mrazova - Frankston HospitalAllyson O'Brien - The University of MelbourneGretta T. Pecl - University of TasmaniaAmandine Schaeffer - UNSW SydneyRebecca J. Shellock - UNSW SydneyGrant A. SmithScott Smithers - James Cook UniversityAna Vila-Concejo - The University of SydneyGraham Wood - University of Tasmania
- Publication Details
- Australian journal of maritime and ocean affairs, Vol.First Online, pp.1-24
- Number of pages
- 24
- Identifiers
- 991013376476902368
- Copyright
- © 2026 The Author(s).
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Science and Engineering; National Marine Science Centre; Science
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article