Domestic commercial vessels

When operating in the marine environment, there are compliance requirements you must meet. These include safety requirements, regular vessel surveys, permits and certificates of operation.

On 1 June 2025, we introduced new requirements for safety management systems (SMS).

These changes affect all domestic commercial vessels. Find out what you need to do.

We also introduced simplified SMS requirements for smaller, less complex vessels. Check if your vessel is eligible. 

What is a domestic commercial vessel?

Find out if your vessel is a domestic commercial vessel. From 1 July 2018, we will provide services to the domestic commercial vessel industry. Read about the services that will be impacted by the transition, and find out if this change will affect you.

Operations

Certificates of operation and other permits are needed to operate a domestic commercial vessel. Find out which ones you need based on the size, type and function of your vessel.

Operational safety

There are a number of safety requirements that domestic commercial vessels must have onboard. Find out how to make sure your vessel meets these standards.

Surveys

Your domestic commercial vessel may be subject to regular surveys. Find out whether you need a certificate of survey, how often your vessel needs to be surveyed, and how to find an accredited surveyor.

Inspections

We inspect domestic commercial vessels to ensure the safety of people, vessels, and the environment.

Compliance

Our staff monitor compliance with staff from marine safety, fisheries, parks, and police agencies where we have compliance partner arrangements in place.

Marine surveyors manual

What the marine surveyors accreditation scheme is, how to apply, and how to conduct surveys once you are an accredited surveyor.

National system state transitions

Find out which services have moved to us from your local marine safety authority.

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