Why this matters
Lost freight containers at sea pose serious risks to maritime safety and the marine environment.
To address this, we’re proposing changes that align with our focus on risk-based regulation and engaging with stakeholders. These changes will make sure reporting requirements are clearly set out in Australian law and that the related marine orders stay up to date, accurate, and enforceable.
What’s changing
We are proposing changes to align with International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution MSC.550(108) which introduces mandatory container reporting requirements into SOLAS Chapter V.
The main updates are to Marine Order 27 (Safety of navigation and radio equipment), with minor changes to marine orders 41 and 94 to reflect the MO27 updates and ensure consistency.
Separate minor updates to marine orders 27, 41, 43, 70 and 94 will also be made to improve clarity, revise outdated references and align with recent international conventions.
These updates will ensure a smooth transition to the new international requirements and help enhance safety and accountability across the maritime sector
Have your say
We encourage all interested parties to review the proposed changes and provide feedback.
Consultation closes on 18 December 2025.
For more information and to make a submission, visit Proposed changes to rules for lost container shipping.
