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Join our emergency towage services panel (ATM 24AMSA280)

We are seeking service providers to deliver Level 2 Emergency Towage Capability (ETC2) services as part of our national maritime emergency response network.

What are ETC2 services  

ETC2 services support AMSA’s emergency maritime operations by delivering first strike capability in response to maritime incidents.  

Providers must be able to carry out actions such as:  

  • preserving life
  • keeping a vessel clear of imminent danger
  • towing a vessel out of danger
  • towing or escorting a casualty to a place of refuge (not a place of repair)
  • fighting fire
  • stabilising a casualty to prevent further damage to the ship or the environment
  • protecting the marine environment from pollution
  • other emergency support services as directed by AMSA. 

You may be called on at short notice and must be able to respond safely, effectively and within agreed timeframes. 

Who can apply 

To be eligible, you must demonstrate:  

  • the capability to deliver ETC2 services to AMSA’s technical and safety standards
  • access to appropriate vessels, crew, and equipment
  • certified business management systems that meet:
    • AS/NZS ISO 9001 
    • AS/NZS 4801 or ISO 45001 
    • AS/NZS ISO 14001
  • proven operational readiness and response coordination experience. 

You must also:  

  • hold a valid ABN or ARBN
  • not be bankrupt, insolvent, or subject to external administration in the last 3 years (this also applies to any sub-contractors). 

How the panel works 

This is an open panel, which means eligible providers can apply to join at any time before 30 June 2029. The current panel term runs until 30 June 2030. 

If your application is successful, you'll enter into a Deed of Standing Offer with AMSA. 

Under the Deed, AMSA issues regional work orders for ETC 2 services. The term of each work order is usually multiple years. 

Once a work order is issued, vessels are tasked as needed. AMSA may contact you to respond to emergencies based on: 

  • your availability
  • vessel capability
  • location and proximity to the incident. 

This panel supports AMSA's national maritime emergency response capability without relying solely on dedicated towage assets.

ETC 2 services are entirely responsive. AMSA does not guarantee that any services will be requested during the term of the Deed or any work order.

How to apply 

Review these documents carefully:  

Ensure your submission complies with the stated requirements. 

Lodge your response via the Tenderbox email address at tenderbox@amsa.gov.au in accordance with the instructions outlined in Section 3 of the Approach to Market (ATM) document. 

Get help 

For questions or more information about the ETC2 panel, email contracts-enquiries@amsa.gov.au 

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