Thursday 4 June 2026
Between January and March 2026, we received 344 marine incident reports involving domestic commercial vessels.
A total of 336 marine incidents involving domestic commercial vessels were reported between January and March 2026, including 45 serious incidents and one classified as very serious.
The very serious marine incident involved a vessel taking on water while underway, with all crew safely abandoning to a life raft before the vessel sank.
Across the quarter, reported incidents highlight a range of ongoing safety risks facing operators, including:
- crew injuries such as falls, crush injuries and overboard incidents
- collisions, groundings and contact with infrastructure
- mechanical and equipment failures, including propulsion and electrical issues.
While many incidents were managed without injury or with prompt response by crew, the latest report reinforces the importance of strong safety management systems, risk assessment and crew preparedness in preventing serious outcomes.
Related information
- Conduct a lifejacket risk assessment for your operation
- Develop and practise emergency procedures, including crew recovery and fire response
- Implement a planned maintenance system to reduce equipment failures
- Improve safe access and reduce the risk of falls during boarding and transfers
- Report marine incidents to support safety improvements across the industry