A snapshot of crime prevention partnerships on Australian and American waterfronts

This Briefing Paper summarises a three year research study of the public-private sector approach to managing security in the maritime environment. The project reviewed the efficacy, benefits and challenges of public-private interactions at two ports, one in Australia and the other in the USA. The author’s conclusions identify trust, commitment, shared responsibility and mutual understanding of each sector’s goals as being essential to maintaining a secure, productive and efficient transport network. Contrasts between the Australian and US experiences are noted, and recommendations to enhance public-private interactions regarding port security are suggested.