On this page:
- Latest changes
- What this exemption allows you to do
- Eligibility requirements
- How to apply
- Related legislation
- Superseded
Latest changes
Current exemption holders are required to re-apply, following an update to exemption 31 PDF109.54 KB which came into effect on 1 July 2025.
To continue to operate under the exemption, you will need to reapply and have it approved by 31 January 2026.
Alternatively, you may apply for an AMSA certificate of competency using your expired pre-USL certificate. For further information, call AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484.
What this exemption allows you to do
Exemption 31 allows a pre-USL Code certificate holder to work on a commercial fishing vessel as a master, engineer or coxswain.
The maritime safety authority of a state or the Northern Territory must have issued the pre-USL Code certificate.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for exemption 31 you must:
- have an expired pre-USL code certificate and worked in a commercial fishing vessel operation in the 5 years before 30 June 2013
- have continued to work in the same capacity within the same limitations on the certificate
- be approved by AMSA to operate under exemption 31.
Your pre-USL Code certificate must have:
- entitled you to be the master, engineer or coxswain of a domestic commercial fishing vessel
- been issued before 1 July 2013 and have expired before 1 January 2014
- been based on competencies recognised in a certificate before the USL Code commenced.
Conditions
If you become aware of a medical condition that may affect your ability to operate a vessel, you must declare it and provide us with evidence of your medical fitness.
How to apply
Option 1
AMSA may recognise your pre-USL code certificate as equivalent to the corresponding national law certificate. If you would like to apply for a national law certificate of competency, please call AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484.
Option 2
Complete an AMSA form 758 application if you wish to continue to operate under the exemption. Submit an application as soon as possible to receive an approval by the cut-off date 31 January 2026. If you are approved, you can continue to use the exemption until 30 June 2028.
Required documents and information
Submit the form with:
- a copy of your expired pre-USL code certificate(s) of competency or proof of previous approval to operate under exemption 31
- intended operation(s) and geographical area(s)
- a completed Exemption 31 medical declaration form PDF349.99 KB.
If you have trouble locating a copy of your expired pre-USL code certificate or previous approval, or you need assistance completing the application for the exemption, please contact AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484.
Related legislation
Marine Order 505 (Certificates of competency—national law)
Superseded
Refer to superseded and repealed marine safety exemptions for previous versions of this exemption.