On this page:
- Download exemption 01
- Latest changes
- What this exemption allows you to do
- Eligibility requirements
- How to apply
- Definitions
- Related legislation and standards
- Superseded
In force 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2030.
Latest changes
An updated version of exemption 01 came into effect on 1 July 2025.
We reissued the previous version with no policy changes.
You do not need to apply to use this exemption.
If you previously used this exemption, review the updated exemption to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria.
All domestic commercial vessels (DCVs) are required to have and display a UVI unless exempt.
What this exemption allows you to do
Exemption 01 exempts eligible vessels from the requirement to:
- have and display a UVI (full eligibility) or
- display a UVI (part eligibility).
Eligibility requirements
- Vessels that do not need to have or display a UVI
- A vessel that is registered and marked in accordance with the Shipping Registration Act 1981.
- A tender vessel which prominently and clearly displays either:
- the words ‘Tender to’ followed by the name or unique vessel identifier of its parent vessel
- the name of the owner of the vessel followed by the word ‘tender’
- the UVI of its parent vessel followed by ‘– T’.
- A human-powered vessel that is covered by a certificate of operation.
- A sailing vessel that is <7.5m long that is covered by a certificate of operation.
- Vessels that do not need to display a UVI but still need to have one
- A human-powered vessel.
- A sailing vessel that is less than 7.5 metres long.
- A personal watercraft used in an aerial freestyle device operation.
How to apply
You do not need to apply to us for this exemption.
You will need to present copies of documents that prove your eligibility to authorities if requested. These documents should be kept in your safety management system.
Definitions
Human-powered vessel
For this exemption, a human powered vessel means a vessel that is either:
- propelled only by human-powered devices (includes oars, paddles and pedal systems)
- a canoe or kayak that is propelled by human-powered devices and fitted with:
- an auxiliary motor of ≤3.5 kW propulsion power; or
- an auxiliary electric propulsion motor of ≤24 volts and a total battery capacity of ≤20 kWh.
Sailing vessel
For this exemption, a sailing vessel means a vessel that is designed for and capable of undertaking a voyage propelled by sail alone, and that:
- has no auxiliary motor, or
- has an auxiliary motor of ≤3.5 kW propulsion power, or
- has an auxiliary electric propulsion motor of ≤24 volts and a total battery capacity of ≤20 kWh.
Related legislation and standards
Superseded
Refer to superseded, repealed and expired marine safety exemptions for previous versions of this exemption.