Welcome to the first edition of AMWS's E-News from the Chairman, Mr David Parmeter
AN INTRODUCTION TO AMWS
Australian Mariners Welfare Society (AMWS) strives to ensure all seafarers and their dependants, irrespective of nationality, are treated with dignity, respect and compassion. AMWS does this by speaking up on issues that adversely impact on seafarers both in Australia and overseas. The objective is to achieve practical outcomes by working with all organisations and individuals that support the welfare of seafarers – retired, current and emerging.
AMWS commenced life in 1863 as the Sydney Sailors' Home. For over a century the Sydney Sailors Home performed a vital role is providing seafarers from all nations accommodation, dignity and respect. However, as working conditions for seafarers gradually improved and with significant reductions in crew numbers due to new technology, the need for a dedicated Sailors Home declined.
Following the sale of the Sydney Sailors' Home, the Society shifted its focus to the welfare of seafarers worldwide. Today the principal activities of AMWS include:
Within Australia
Provision of subsidised home unit accommodation for ex-seafarers of modest means.
Providing direct financial contributions to charitable organisations that specifically deal with the needs and welfare of current seafarers. This is done through annual grants to the Mission to Seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea (Stella Maris) in recognition of their work for visiting mariners at centres in ports around Australia. Project grants are also made to assist with the upkeep and operation of these centres.
Offering educational scholarships and training opportunities for emerging seafarers who need financial support. This includes scholarships for students at approved maritime educational facilities and tall ship training experiences.
Over the past 16 years (2006 – 2021) AMWS has paid $2,616,106 in grants, donations and scholarships (Australian Dollars).
Internationally
AMWS supports international campaigns for seafarer welfare. For example, in 2021 AMWS made two significant financial donations to the Seafarers International Relief Fund.
AMWS is also a signatory to the Neptune Declaration. ++++++++++
AMWS is proud of its achievements in providing welfare to seafarers and their families for over a century, and will continue to show leadership and compassion on all issues that affect mariners’ welfare in the years ahead. We are committed to the welfare of seafarers worldwide. AMWS will work with all likeminded individuals, companies, organisations and NGOs that are committed to improving the welfare of seafarers everywhere.