Exemption 38 (Low complexity duties)

On 1 January 2023 a new Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal certificate of competency effectively replaced the old Exemption 38 (low complexity duties) which no longer exists. The Coxswain Grade 3 is an entry-level ticket which allows people who meet the pre-requisites to operate vessels <12m in smooth waters or close to shore.

If you’re an existing worker previously operating under Exemption 38 and you meet the pre-requisites, you can work as a Coxswain Grade 3. It’s as simple as that. Applying to AMSA for an actual Coxswain Grade 3 card is optional. Regardless of whether you hold the Card, you do have to meet the pre-requisites if you work as a Coxswain Grade 3. 

One of the pre-requisites is a Certificate of Medical Fitness – Domestic Seafarers. Transitional arrangements are in place for existing workers to meet this new requirement, however these expire on 31 December 2023. If you don’t yet have a Certificate of Medical Fitness, make the necessary arrangements now. Don’t wait for the deadline to elapse.

For more details about the Coxswain Grade 3, including pre-requisites, see:

Exemptions 18 and 33 (Sailing)

Exemption 18 (Sail) and Exemption 33 (Sailing vessel with motor propulsion) are being phased out.

From 1 July 2025, you will be required to hold either a new Sailing Master Coastal certificate, or a new Sailing Master Offshore certificate. You will need to organise a medical fitness certificate and meet other requirements, including a commercially endorsed RYA Yachtmaster certificate, a marine radio licence (from the Office of Maritime Communication) and a current first aid certificate. 

For more details, see:

Other exemptions

As at 1 January 2023, the following exemptions no longer exist. These have been incorporated into the new Marine Order 505:

  • Marine Safety (Temporary Service) Exemption 08
  • Marine Safety (Inland Waters) Exemption 12
  • Marine Safety (Special Operations) Exemption 20
  • Marine Safety (Expired Certificates) Exemption 26
  • Marine Safety (Navigation Act Seafarer Qualifications) Exemption 30
  • Marine Safety (Expired Perpetual Certificates) Exemption 34