Exemption 1 - Marine Safety (Vessel identifiers)

This exemption is for owners of domestic commercial vessel who may not want to obtain or display a unique identifier.

An updated version of Exemption 1 comes into effect on 1 July 2025.

We have remade the current version with no policy changes.

You do not need to apply to use this exemption.

Current exemption holders: Review the updated exemption to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria.

See the updated Exemption 1 (EX01) PDF109.83 KB

In force 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2030.

You do not need approval from us to use this exemption.

All domestic commercial vessels are required to have and display a unique identifier unless exempt.

What this exemption will allow you to do

Exemption 01 exempts the following vessels from the requirement to obtain and display a unique identifier:

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 unique vessel identifier 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.

Exemption 01 exempts the following vessels from the requirement to display a unique identifier only (they are still required to obtain one):

A human powered vessel, other than a Class 1 vessel that is not covered by a certificate of operation.
A sailing vessel, other than a Class 1 passenger vessel that:
- is not covered by a certificate of operation
- is less than 7.5 metres long
- has no auxiliary engine, or an auxiliary engine of less than or equal to 3.5 kilowatts propulsion power.
A personal watercraft used in an aerial freestyle device operation.