Shadow industry minister Kim Carr has announced an investment in a new research vessel for the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIM), as a part of the policy to help protect the marine environment.

The new vessel will join the existing fleet of RV Solander and RV Cape Ferguson operated by AIM.

The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) has welcomed the announcement.

AMWU’s assistant national secretary Glenn Thompson said Australian shipbuilders were relying on new orders like the research vessel to maintain jobs as they wait for the Federal Government’s continuous-build program for the Royal Australian Navy to start.

“Our shipbuilders are among the best in the world and we need to maintain their skills during the current downturn in the industry so that when the expected increase in shipbuilding occurs, they’re ready to take on the work and help to train new workers,” Thompson said.

“We welcome any new orders for major vessels which will help keep Australian shipyards viable during the current difficult period being experienced in the industry.”

Thompson said that when completed, the new larger research vessel would allow a greater level of research activity by marine scientists by freeing up the two smaller vessels for coastal work, while the new ship concentrated on offshore research.