The maritime security management system : perceptions of the international shipping community

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of a research project on the Maritime Security

Management System (MSMS) conducted at the Australian Maritime College

(AMC) in 2005–2006. The main objectives of this study are to identify key

shore-based and near shore activities associated with maritime operations that

are currently not covered by the International Ship and Port Facility Security

Code and players involved in these activities; to explore and analyse important

relationships among them, which can affect the management of security; to

investigate the key criteria of a good/effective security management system; to

explore the perceived effectiveness of some major aspects of security activities in

a MSMS; and to identify the perceived importance of essential elements in a

MSMS. Based on this identification and analysis, essential inputs that should

be included in the curriculum of maritime universities and training institutions

are proposed. This study applies a two-stage methodological approach, in which

a focus group discussion is utilised first to explore the initial ideas from

maritime experts, followed by a mail survey to reflect the perceptions of the

international shipping community. The findings of this study provide essential

insights to the formulation of such a global MSMS for the sake of safer and

more efficient maritime transport.