MUA calls for vaccination of all foreign seafarers calling at Australian ports May 17, 2021, by Jasmina Ovcina In an effort to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading into the community, the New South Wales Ministry of Health plans to vaccinate a small number of foreign seafarers onboard vessels that transport gas between Australian ports. The Maritime Union of Australia welcomed the initiative between NSW Health and NSW Ports, which will cover vessels that regularly visit the Port Botany Bulk Liquids Berth. However, the union insists the model must be rolled out nationally to reduce the risk of COVID transmission to waterfront workers.