Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the Australian Maritime Safety Authority's mission is to ensure safe vessel operations, to combat marine pollution and to rescue people in distress.
"With his depth of knowledge in commercial vessel operations, Mr Richey is an ideal appointment to further the Australian Maritime Safety Authority mission," Mr Truss said.
"Since July 2013, Mr Richey has been serving as a Member and since April 2014 as Deputy Chair on the Australian Maritime Safety Authority Board, bringing to the table his strong leadership style and his years of experience in marine policy and planning.
"Between 1992 and 2001, Mr Richey served as foundation member and Deputy Chair on the Board of the Australian Fisheries Management Authority.
"As Managing Director of Richey Fishing Company and Richey Services, Mr Richey's business includes aerial fish spotting, salmon, scallop, shark, squid and charter operations.
"He was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2005, for service to the commercial fishing industry, particularly the promotion of sustainable utilisation of Australian Government managed fisheries resources and the development of new national marine polices and safety legislation."
Mr Truss thanked outgoing Chair Mr Leo Zussino for his significant contribution to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority since he was appointed in November 2008.
"Mr Zussino added a new perspective to Australian Maritime Safety Authority's regulatory role and its involvement in the development of maritime safety and environmental standards," he said.
"I wish Mr Zussino every success in his future endeavours."