Proposed changes to vessels operating in polar waters

We want your feedback on proposed changes to Marine Order 53 (Vessels in polar waters) 2016 (MO53). The changes will ensure the marine order aligns with the new requirements following amendments to SOLAS and the Polar Code.

Why we are consulting

From 1 January 2026, amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Chapter XIV extend some Polar Code requirements to the following non-SOLAS vessels operating in polar waters:  

  • fishing vessels of 24 metres in length overall and above  
  • pleasure yachts of 300 gross tonnage and above not engaged in trade  
  • cargo ships of 300 gross tonnage and above but below 500 gross tonnage.  

We need to amend and reissue MO53 to give effect to these changes under Australia’s treaty obligations.

We also want to update the order to improve clarity, consistency with international standards, and usability.

This is a full review of MO53 and the first since it was introduced in 2016.

About Marine Order 53

Marine Order 53 (Vessels in polar waters) ensures vessels are certified to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) Polar Code survey requirements and operate safely in polar waters.

Key dates

16 February 2026 - Consultation open 

15 March 2026 - Consultation closes

1 June 2026 - Proposed commencement of revised marine order

Who the changes apply to

  • Regulated Commercial fishers
  • International operators and crew
  • Recreational vessel owners
  • Industry bodies/groups

Proposed changes

Ice detection equipment

Requiring the following types of vessels to be equipped to visually detect ice when operating in darkness:

  • fishing vessels of 24 metres in length overall and above  
  • pleasure yachts of 300 gross tonnage and above not engaged in trade
  • cargo ships of 300 gross tonnage and above but below 500 gross tonnage.

Ice information and navigation equipment

Requiring pleasure yachts of 500 gross tonnage and above not engaged in trade, to have:

  • ice information
  • navigational equipment for safe transiting in ice  
  • navigational systems that can function under expected environmental conditions.

Voyage plans

Requiring all vessels mentioned above to have voyage plans that consider potential hazards for the intended voyage.

Draft marine orders and change summary

Related documents

Have your say

AMSA welcomes your feedback on the proposed changes.

You can submit feedback by:

  • making a submission using this online form
  • contacting AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484 - a Customer Service Officer will take your feedback over the phone
  • sending an email to consultation@amsa.gov.au.

Please submit your feedback by midnight on 15 March 2026.

Last updated: 16 February 2026

Submit your feedback

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Proposed changes

Read about the proposed changes and let us know your comments.

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Master, crew, skipper
Shipping agent, naval architect, maritime surveyor
Vessel traffic services provider, safety equipment supplier, maintenance provider
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