On this page:
- Download exemption 17
- Latest changes
- What this exemption allows you to do
- Eligibility requirements
- How to apply
- Related legislation
- Superseded
In force 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2029.
Latest changes
An updated version of exemption 17 came into effect on 1 July 2025.
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.
The updated exemption includes minor editorial changes that do not change the way the exemption operates.
What this exemption allows you to do
Exemption 17 allows you to perform master or chief mate duties without the certificate of competency (CoC) that's usually required.
The vessel must still be operated within the operational area specified on the certificate of operation.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for exemption 17, you must meet the requirements relevant to your area of operation.
- Great Barrier Reef Region and Torres Strait zone
You can perform the duties of a master or chief mate if you hold the required certificate of competency for the vessel class and service category outlined in the table below.
Vessel class and service category Vessel length Duties that can be performed Certificate of competency you can hold 1C
2C
3C<80 m Master Master <35 m NC* or
Master <45 m NC1C
2C
3C<80 m Chief mate Master <24 m NC DCVs in service category 1D, 1E, 2D and 2E that are permanently based at an anchored pontoon that is in service category Class 1E.
The vessel in sight of and is capable of communicating with the pontoon.
Not applicable Master
Coxswain Grade 1 NC or
Coxswain Grade 2 NC*Note: From 1 January 2023, people who hold a Master <35 m certificate are automatically able to do the job of a Master <45 m. This includes acting as chief mate or deck watchkeeper on a vessel <100m long in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Map: See the area defined as the Torres Strait zone under this exemption.
- Great Barrier Reef Region: pontoons only
Circumstances where you can perform the duties of a master or chief mate without the certificate of competency that’s usually required.
Vessel class and service category Vessel length Duties that can be performed Certificate of competency you can hold DCV that is a pontoon in service category 1E <80 m Master Master <35 m NC* or
Master <45 m NCDCV that is a pontoon in service category 1E <80 m Chief mate Master <24 m NC *Note: From 1 January 2023, people who hold a Master <35 m certificate are automatically able to do the job of a Master <45 m. This includes acting as chief mate or deck watchkeeper on a vessel <100m long in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
- Queensland Island
Circumstances where you can perform the duties of a master without the certificate of competency that’s usually required.
Vessel class and service category Vessel length Duties that can be performed Certificate of competency you can hold DCVs in service category 1D, 1E, 2D or 2E operating from a Queensland island.
The vessel is in sight of, and is capable of communicating with, the island.
Not applicable Master Coxswain Grade 1 NC or
Coxswain Grade 2 NC
See a list of all circumstances PDF128.69 KB where you can perform the duties of a master or chief mate without the certificate of competency that's usually required.
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 already be on board in your safety management system.
Related legislation
Superseded versions
Refer to superseded and repealed marine safety exemptions for previous versions of this exemption.