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AMSA update–2023 editions

Read the latest news from AMSA
Gold Christmas bauble with a blue background

AMSA update December 2023

In this edition:

Happy holidays from AMSA — shutdown dates

Happy holidays to all domestic commercial vessel owners, operators and crew. We look forward to another year of safe and clean seas in 2024. 

AMSA will be closed from 5:00 pm Friday 22 December 2023, re-opening on Tuesday 2 January 2024. 

We will have limited phone and email services available between 27 and 29 December to assist people with urgent applications for exemptions, certificates of survey, and certificates of operation. 

If your matter is not urgent, please contact us from 2 January 2024 when we return to our full services. Our search and rescue team will continue to operate every day (24/7) during this time. 

Future emergency response vessel secured for Torres Strait and Great Barrier Reef

AMSA has awarded Smit Lamnalco, a world leader in marine towage and support services, a 10-year AUD$196 million contract for AMSA’s first-response emergency towage capability in the Torres Strait and Great Barrier Reef.   

Smit Lamnalco will be providing an enhanced capability for emergency response which will be bigger, more powerful, faster and more fuel efficient than AMSA’s current capability, the Coral Knight, which comes to the end of its contract in June 2024.   

The new vessel will be well placed to respond to maritime casualties involving bigger and heavier merchant ships transiting Australian waters.  

The new vessel will also be more fuel efficient than its predecessor, the Coral Knight, with a hybrid propulsion system that allows the power generation system to be optimised for the desired operational profile and speed. Consideration has also been given in the design stage for the use of methanol as an alternative future fuel source which aligns with the global push to reduce emissions and decarbonise shipping. 

Follow us on social media for updates about this exciting new era of safe and clean seas, and saving lives. 

A new model for maintenance delivery 

For the last 33 years, AMSA has been the dutiful custodian of about 480 aids to navigation which form part of a much bigger Australian network collaboratively managed with the states and territories, which safeguards the lives of seafarers, our precious seas and coastlines. 

Some are iconic heritage listed lighthouses, others are buoys and beacons. All are managed using specialist contractors, underpinned by our own in-house expertise.  

A recent approach to market to continue with a single national contract for maintenance did not result in AMSA awarding a contract, but did provide us with an unexpected opportunity to re-evaluate, build and diversify our maintenance delivery model.   

This new model will take a regional approach to critical infrastructure services such as outage response and essential maintenance, with multiple contracts to be on offer via Austender in the New Year. Trade business owners are encouraged to register for notifications on AusTender now. In addition, and separately, we will also have a contract on offer for centralised technical support and logistics.  

Australia re-elected into IMO Council 

On 1 December, in London, Australia secured its position in Category B of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2024-25 biennium, reaffirming our pivotal role in shaping the future of global shipping for Australia and our region. 

Bringing a vessel to Australia or going on an overseas voyage

If you are considering bringing a vessel to Australia or taking a domestic commercial vessel on an overseas voyage there are certain Australian standards and regulations you need to meet.  
 
Transferring a regulated Australian vessel to a domestic commercial vessel (DCV), or vice versa, takes time and involves both AMSA and AMSA-appointed recognised organisations (RO).   

Our new instructions provide vessel owners and operators step-by-step guidance on four common scenarios:  

  • bringing a vessel that is overseas to Australia  
  • a DCV undertaking a one-time overseas voyage 
  • a DCV intending to operate commercially overseas on an ongoing basis 
  • a RAV no longer intending to operate on international voyages. 

Research identifies gaps in induction training

The Office of Transport Safety Investigations recently commissioned research that identified a potential safety risk around the lack of effective and hands-on induction training of casual crew on domestic commercial vessels (DCVs). Induction training that covers duties, key operations of the vessel and emergency procedures is critical for everyone’s safety onboard. It’s also now a legal requirement.     
  
Visit the Office of Transport Safety Investigations website to learn about the key findings from this research and recommendations for improving safety practices.

Australian tugboat responders honoured by IMO for bravery

The three crew members of the SL Diamantina, who saved 21 lives and averted an environmental disaster in July 2022, have received an Exceptional Bravery at Sea commendation from the International Maritime Organization (IMO). 

Supporting seafarer welfare at the DCN Awards

AMSA was again proud to support the annual Daily Cargo News Australian Shipping and Maritime Industry Awards in recognition of the vital role seafarers play in the shipping industry. The 2023 Awards were held in Sydney on 15 November, where our CEO, Mick Kinley, had the honour of presenting the Seafarers Welfare Award to the Port Community of Port Kembla.  

John Kewa from Mission to Seafarers Port Kembla, and Peter Ernst from Port Authority of NSW, accepted the Award on behalf of the Port Community of Port Kembla, who donated an unsolicited $80,000 to replace the Mission to Seafarers Port Kembla minibus after it was written off in an accident. 

Consultation feedback reports

These reports provide an overview of the consultation process, key issues raised during public consultation and the key changes to the marine orders.  

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

A vessel collided with multiple other vessels following a gearbox failure, and a crew member sustained serious injury while setting cray pots. These are some of the occurrences included in the latest incident report.   
During October 2023, there were 92 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 27 were serious and 2 were very serious. 

Passenger seriously injured after falling down stairwell

This month’s safety lesson report highlights the importance of conducting risk assessments for areas on vessels that may present a safety risk. Appropriate control measures help protect passengers and crew. 

Every month we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel. 

Follow us for 12 days of AMSA photos 

This festive season, we’re sharing 12 photos our staff have captured in the course of their work this year.  

Every day, AMSA staff interact with people and places in and around Australia’s beautiful marine environments. Follow our #12DaysOfAMSAPhotos campaign on Facebook and LinkedIn to see all the photos; and stay subscribed for all the latest updates.

Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season. 

 

AMSA update November 2023

In this edition:

Now available: Guidelines for marine adventure tourism operators

We have released new safety guidelines for marine adventure tourism operations. The guidelines are designed to help you to develop, maintain and implement an effective safety management system for these operation types. 

Marine adventure tourism operations include hire, rides, tours or similar activities involving: 

  • personal watercraft including aerial freestyle devices and hover-boards 
  • parasailing and towed water sports 
  • jetboats 
  • high speed adventure vessels like, fast craft, jetboats, ocean collared vessels.

Focused inspection campaign on vessel adventure rides and experiences

From October 2023 – March 2024, marine inspectors will be focusing inspection and education efforts on vessel adventure rides and experiences.   

Our inspectors will be looking closely at how operational activities, vessel design and crew competencies have been carefully considered to ensure the safety of everyone onboard.  

Read more and preview a list of questions our marine inspectors may ask here on our website.

Tassal Group wins on environmental stewardship at Tasmanian Seafood Awards

On 3 November, AMSA was proud to sponsor and present the Environmental Stewardship Award at the Tasmanian Seafood Awards held in Sandy Bay. Our Liaison Officer in Tasmania, Claire Cunningham, and Matthew Gregg from our Environmental Policy team, were pleased to present the award to Caroline Hounsell, Head of Responsible Business from Tassal Group.  

Tassal won for their Shore Power project, which has reduced their dependence on fossil fuels by enabling machinery that uses high volumes of non-renewable energy to swap to a more renewable energy source.  

National Search and Rescue Awards

On 19 October, the National Search and Rescue Awards were held in Hobart. Australia’s search and rescue community gathered to recognise excellence in search and rescue, and honour those who displayed courage and professionalism in the face of adversity.  

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

A vessel lost a propeller while conducting a tour, and another caught alight while unattended at berth. These are some of the occurrences included in the latest incident report.   

During September 2023, there were 84 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 23 were serious. 

Passenger vessel flooded after access door was left open

This month’s safety lesson report highlights the importance of ensuring all crew, including new employees, are provided appropriate training on a vessel’s safety management system, and understand the practical application and their responsibilities.

Every month we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel.

AMSA recognised as Inclusive Employer for second consecutive year

We're proud to announce that AMSA is on Diversity Council Australia’s (DCA) list of inclusive employers for 2023-2024. 

Each year, Australian organisations have the opportunity to participate in DCA’s Inclusive Employers Index, which enables them to measure diversity and inclusion in their workforce and compare findings to national benchmarks. 

AMSA update October 2023

 

In this edition:

Celebrating World Maritime Day

Australia proudly joined the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other shipping nations in celebration of World Maritime Day on 28 September.

This year’s theme, MARPOL at 50 — Our commitment goes on, signifies 50 years of setting standards for maritime pollution prevention, and the important role of MARPOL in protecting our oceans.

Transitional arrangements for general purpose hands are ending soon

If you are working as a general purpose hand without a certificate of competency (sometimes referred to as a ‘ticket’), or you employ a worker as a general purpose hand on your commercial vessel, you may need to review their level of supervision and duties against changes to Marine Order 505 (Certificates of competency) which came into force on 1 January 2023.

Reminder: General purpose hands are required to hold a formal General Purpose Hand ticket if they are performing deck and engineering tasks unsupervised.

A person working as a general purpose hand prior to 1 January 2023 has access to transitional arrangements which make it easier to apply for this certificate, but these expire on 31 December 2023.

Visit our website for general information about the General Purpose Hand Certificate, including supervisory definitions. Click on the link below for more information about transitional arrangements for existing workers.

National Safe Boating Week 2023

This year, National Safe Boating Week (NSBW), held from 30 September to 6 October, focused on the importance of lifejackets and being able to raise the alarm by carrying a distress beacon. 

Initiatives like NSBW remind us all to stay safe out on the water.

Risk assessment workshops for Queensland fishing operations

We are holding risk assessment workshops in Queensland for commercial fishers.

These free in-person workshops will provide information and guidance on lifejacket wear requirements that now must be addressed in your safety management system’s risk assessment.

The workshops will be held in several locations in Queensland until December 2023, and are scheduled around fishery closures and tailored to the different fisheries, factoring in the different environments and equipment used. 

Spillcon 2023

AMSA had the opportunity to sponsor and attend Spillcon 2023 in Brisbane during September. It was a valuable opportunity for us to share insights and learn how we can better prevent and respond to marine pollution incidents when they happen.

We all have a part to play in preventing marine pollution. Find out what you can do as a DCV operator on the AMSA website.

Have your say on standards for safety equipment carriage on domestic commercial vessels

We want to know what you think about the proposed changes to standards for safety equipment carriage on domestic commercial vessels.

These standards are contained in Part C7A of the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV).

Tell us what you think on our consultation hub; you have until midnight, 27 November 2023 to submit your comments.

Hear about essential MMSI number information on the Boating Insights podcast

In the latest episode of the Boating Insights podcast, our beacon expert Linda Berryman talks with Above and Beyond Boating about the importance of having your Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) programmed into your AIS (Automatic Identification System) or marine radio.

This information is essential to allow other vessels and maritime authorities to identify your boat quickly.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

A crew member was momentarily crushed and required a medical evacuation, and a vessel collided with a bridge. These are just some of the occurrences included in the latest incident report.

During August 2023, there were 78 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 23 were serious.

Provide your feedback on our communication about operational safety changes

You might have recently seen our communication about operational safety changes related to Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements), which came into effect from 1 August 2023.

We’re committed to improving the way we communicate with you and keeping you informed about regulatory changes.

So we can deliver on that commitment, we invite you to provide your feedback on our communication about the operational safety changes - the survey will take about 15 minutes.

AMSA update September 2023

In this edition:

Transitional arrangements expire soon for Coxswain Grade 3 certificate  

If you work on a commercial vessel as an entry-level coxswain, but you haven’t yet applied for the new Coxswain Grade 3 certificate of competency, sometimes called a 'ticket', you may benefit from temporary transitional arrangements for existing workers.

This includes a grace period until 31 December 2023 to obtain a certificate of medical fitness, which is a requirement for this ticket.

Reminder: The new Coxswain Grade 3 certificate of competency replaces the now non-existent Exemption 38 (Low complexity duties).

If you previously worked under this exemption, you must meet the requirements for a Coxswain Grade 3 certificate of competency to continue to work in this capacity.

Hurry though, this transitional arrangement is only in place for people who have been working on boats before 1 January 2023.

Operational safety changes for domestic commercial vessels

On 1 August 2023, a series of changes to Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements – national law), came into effect and they broadly relate to risk assessments, crewing and safety management systems.

While the changes are not major, they are nuanced and it’s important that owners and operators of domestic commercial vessels understand them and ensure their operations comply with the new requirements.

Our presentation discusses the changes in detail and provides some guidance to help owners and operators comply.

Watch the presentation below.

Focused inspection campaign on new lifejacket risk assessment requirements, training and emergency drills

The changes to Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements – national law) include new requirements for lifejacket risk assessment, training and emergency drills that have come into effect.

Between 1 October and 30 November 2023, we’ll be conducting a focused inspection campaign on these changes.

Find out more, including the questions you might be asked by a marine inspector.

Risk assessment workshops for Queensland fishing operations

We are holding risk assessment workshops in Queensland for commercial fishers.

These free in-person workshops will provide information and guidance on lifejacket wear requirements that now must be addressed in your safety management system’s risk assessment.

They will be held in several locations in Queensland from September to December 2023. The workshops are scheduled around fishery closures and tailored to the different fisheries, factoring in the different environments and equipment used. 

Hear about maritime safety on the Boating Insights podcast

In the latest episode of the Boating Insights podcast, our beacon expert Linda Berryman talks with Above and Beyond Boating about EPIRBs and PLBs, and the most significant advancements in 406 MhZ beacons since they first became available back in the late 1980s.

Other key topics discussed include why you may need a MMSI and transferring MMSI information, beacon registration and advancements in distress beacons, including AIS-equipped EPIRBS and PLBs and return link service (RLS).

Safe access on domestic commercial vessels

We have issued a new safety alert highlighting the importance of safe access on domestic commercial vessels.

Accessing a vessel while at berth is a routine activity and is sometimes taken for granted.

The requirement for safe access can be overlooked, particularly where there are limited berthing options, or a vessel is only berthed for a short period.

Failing to provide safe access can result in serious risk to people—even more so when bad weather or extreme tidal variation are thrown into the mix.

Have your say on proposed changes to Marine Order 27 (Safety of navigation and radio equipment)

We want your feedback on the proposed changes to Marine Order 27 (Safety of navigation and radio equipment), which relates to navigation safety measures and equipment; radio equipment; and danger, urgency and distress signals and messages.

Consultation is open for 4 weeks. We invite you to provide your feedback until 8 October 2023.

AMSA bans bulk carrier for appalling treatment of seafarers

On 23 August 2023, AMSA banned the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier MSXT Emily from Australian waters for one year. AMSA surveyors found evidence of several violations of the Maritime Labour Convention onboard, including more than $77,000 USD wage theft and coercion.

These are serious matters, and AMSA will not tolerate the mistreatment of seafarers in Australian waters.

Speed and visibility play part in vessel collision

This month’s safety lesson report highlights the importance of being alert to potential risks in low visibility conditions and adhering to safety duties.

Every month we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

A crew member sustained a fractured leg and a vessel’s engine space caught fire following an electrical cable issue. These are just some of the occurrences included in the latest incident report.

During July 2023, there were 82 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 17 were serious.

Sign up to receive more updates

In addition to AMSA update, we also share other content that may be relevant to you and your operation.

These emails focus on safety alerts, marine notices, our Maritime Safety Awareness Bulletins and the National Standards for Commercial Vessels. You can select which ones you would like to receive.

Have your say on our performance as a regulator

We continually assess our regulatory performance so we can better support safe vessel operations and combat marine pollution – and we would like to hear from you.

Please fill out a short survey and to help us improve our practices—it will only take about 2 minutes to complete.

AMSA update August 2023

In this edition:

Compliance focus areas announced for 2023-24 

We have released our National Compliance Plan for 2023-24. It details the focus areas for our compliance activities over the next 12 months as the national safety regulator for domestic commercial vessels, regulated Australian and foreign-flagged vessels. 

Read about the focus areas.

Transitional arrangements end soon 

Are you working on a domestic commercial vessel without a certificate of competency, potentially as an entry-level coxswain or general purpose hand?  

You may need to have a certificate of competency, or at the very least comply with related requirements. You may also be required to have a certificate of medical fitness and current first aid certificate.   

Transitional arrangements are in place which make it easier for existing workers to:  

  • qualify and apply for a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate of Competency if you have previously been working under an Exemption 38 (Low complexity duties), which ceased to exist on 1 January 2023 
  • qualify and apply for a General Purpose Hand certificate of competency if you have been working unsupervised and carrying out deck and engineering tasks.  

These transitional arrangements expire on 31 December 2023. If you haven’t already, make the most of these transitional arrangements now.  

Information sessions on operational safety changes  

There are still spots available to find out about operational safety changes at upcoming workshops in Port Lincoln and Lakes Entrance. The changes came into force on 1 August 2023. A pre-recorded session is also available at the link below.  

The changes to Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements – national law) relate to safety management systems, crewing, and risk assessment; and cover rest, lifejacket wearing, and emergency procedures. 

Register for an upcoming information session.  

State of the Fleet 2022 

Safety is important regardless of whether you operate a 3-metre tinny for commercial crabbing, or a 200-metre bulk carrier. We regulate safety across these diverse maritime industries, and the insights we gain from our daily interactions with the people and vessels that work on Australian waters make a critical contribution towards our mission of safe and clean seas, saving lives.  

This year we’ve published an inaugural State of the Fleet, which provides an overview of our regulatory interactions with these industries in 2022, as well as some of the common safety and pollution issues identified from across the fleet.  

New Chair and members appointed to AMSA Board 

The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, has appointed Captain Jeanine Drummond to the role of Chair of the AMSA Board from Monday 3 July 2023 for a four-year term. 
  
The Minister also appointed two new AMSA Board members: Ms Michelle Taylor and Mr Dean Summers. 

Learn more about the Board members.

NSCV web pages refreshed  

We have heard your feedback and we have taken action. It is now easier for you to find National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) information on our website.  

The NSCV provides standards for vessel design, construction and equipment for domestic commercial vessels. Our focus has been on making the standard easier to navigate, including grouping the parts according to relevant topic. All the information remains the same, but it is now available with new user-friendly features.  

Visit the refreshed webpages.  

Consultation feedback report available — remake of Marine Order 501  

Between April and June 2023, we consulted on the proposed remake of Marine Order 501 (Administration—national law). The current version commenced in 2013 and is due to expire on 1 October 2023.  

Marine Order 501 contains administrative provisions for the national law and is needed to support the smooth functioning of the national system.  The new Marine Order 501 will commence on 1 September 2023, and will be published on the Federal Register of Legislation soon.  

Read the feedback report.  

Poor risk assessment contributes to charter vessel running aground  

 This month’s safety lesson report the importance of a clear risk assessment, supporting procedures and crew communication to ensure understanding of roles and responsibilities in emergency response situations.  

Every month we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel. 

Learn about this month's safety lesson.  

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report 

A vessel collided with a helipad while berthing in rough weather conditions, and 2 divers were located after failing to resurface at the expected time. These are just some of the occurrences included in the latest incident report.   

During June 2023, there were 82 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 21 were serious and one was very serious. 

 Read the incident report.

Missed July’s AMSA update? 

You may have spotted that we’ve skipped the July edition of AMSA update. We haven’t left you high and dry — we’ve just trimmed our sails to better bring you the monthly DCV news at the start of each month instead of the end. Let us know if we’re on the right tack by dropping us a line. 

AMSA update June 2023

In this edition:

Get onboard with lifejacket wear

From 1 August 2023, if you own or operate a domestic commercial vessel you will need to address lifejacket wear requirements in your safety management system’s risk assessment and written procedures.

Vessel owners are also required to consider the management of lifejackets to ensure that they are readily available if needed. Incorporating lifejacket wearing into your risk assessment and safety management system are new requirements which will be in force from 1 August 2023 via a new Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements).

The new Marine Order 504 follows extensive consultation with industry in recent years to improve operational safety and increase lifejacket wearing on domestic commercial vessels, after dozens of preventable fatalities over a 10-year period. 

Read more about lifejacket wearing.

Reminder: Fees for service from 1 July 2023

Domestic commercial vessel safety fees have gone up in price as of 1 July 2023. The indexation factor applied to 2023-24 is 7.0%

The affected fees are for certificates of competency - near coastal, certificates of operation, certificates of survey, the surveyor accreditation scheme, and National Law exemptions.

Nominations for the 2022-23 Australian Search and Rescue awards close 10 July

The Awards are open to individuals, groups or organisations that have made a significant contribution to search and rescue in Australia and deserve recognition at a national level. Categories include Professional, Non-professional and Longstanding Contribution to search and rescue.

Any person or organisation can nominate candidates by completing the form. Nominations close Sunday 10 July 2023.

Submit your nomination now.

Supporting seafarers to care for the seas

The 25th of June was the International Maritime Organization’s Day of the Seafarer. We are proud to support and celebrate the important work of seafarers around the world.

The theme for this year’s Day of the Seafarer is seafarers’ contribution to protecting the marine environment. This was in line with the 2023 World Maritime theme of "MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on", drawing attention to seafarers' contribution to protecting the marine environment.

MARPOL is the IMO’s main international convention for the preventing pollution from ships.

Learn more about Day of the Seafarer 2023.

Have your say on our performance as a regulator

We continually assess our regulatory performance so we can better support safe vessel operations and combat marine pollution – and we would like to hear from you.

Please fill out a short survey and to help us improve our practices. The survey will take about 2 minutes to complete.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

A vessel was lost at sea and another caught fire from a pot of oil left on a stove. These are just some of the events included in the latest incident report.

During May 2023, there were 99 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 17 were serious and one was very serious.

AMSA update May 2023

In this edition:

Safeguard your vessel and operation with an active maintenance plan

Prevention is better than a cure when it comes to vessel maintenance. Yet 5 of the top 10 most frequently identified deficiencies in domestic commercial vessels in 2020 and 2021 related to the material state of lifebuoys, lifejackets, first aid kits, flares, and fire-fighting equipment (extinguishers). 

Include regular checks of your safety equipment in your maintenance plan. For example:   

  • expiry dates for flares, emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) and first aid kit items  
  • condition of lifebuoys including retro reflective tape and lights  
  • servicing dates for life-rafts, inflatable lifejackets, fire extinguishers and fixed firefighting systems. 

Staying on top of maintenance for your vessel operation can help you reduce unexpected costs from breakdowns and equipment failures which could put your vessel out of service and you out of business. 

Check out our maintenance plan essentials for guidance and templates.

Changes coming to operational safety requirements

On 1 August 2023, new requirements will come into force which will improve operational safety for people working on domestic commercial vessels. 

These changes have been made to Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements) following extensive industry consultation in recent years.  

The changes relate to safety management systems, crewing, and risk assessment; and cover rest, lifejacket wearing, and emergency procedures. 

We encourage domestic commercial vessel owners and operators to become familiar with these changes, as you’ll need to ensure your vessel operation is compliant with the revised Marine Order 504 before it enters into force on 1 August 2023.

Find more information about the changes to operational safety requirements.

Keeping safe on Sea Country

This week is National Reconciliation Week. AMSA's Reconciliation Action Plan 2022-24 provides a framework for us to use our spheres of influence to support the national reconciliation movement.

An action in the plan is to "establish and strengthen mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations".  

One of the key ways we will achieve this is to continue to promote a culture of safety with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander domestic commercial vessel operators, supporting them to better assess and manage risks on the water.   

Learn more about Keeping safe on Sea Country.

Mobilizing networks for gender equality

On the International Day for Women in Maritime on 18 May 2023, together with WISTA Australia, Port of Newcastle and The Nautical Institute, we hosted a panel to discuss the unique challenges and initiatives in improving diversity, equity, and inclusion for women in the maritime industry. 

The event was held in Newcastle and was livestreamed to an audience of around 170. True to the 2023 theme of "Mobilizing networks for gender equality”, participants told their stories and collaborated on the barriers and opportunities for gender equality in the maritime industry. 

Fees for service rising from 1 July 2023

Domestic commercial vessel safety fees will go up in price from 1 July 2023. The indexation factor applied to 2023-24 is 7.0%. 

The affected fees are for certificates of competency - near coastal, certificates of operation, certificates of survey, the surveyor accreditation scheme, and National Law exemptions.

For example, a new application for a Coxswain grade 1 certificate of competency will go from $163 today, to $174 from 1 July.

Australia works to end plastic pollution

An Australian delegation led by AMSA has been working at the International Maritime Organization to end plastic marine pollution. 

Recent progress includes guidance on the transportation of plastic pellets at sea, marking some types of fishing gear, and reporting lost or discharged fishing gear.  

Read more about the progress made preventing marine plastic litter.

Make your nominations for the 2022-23 Australian Search and Rescue awards

The Awards are open to individuals, groups or organisations that have made a significant contribution to search and rescue in Australia and deserve recognition at a national level. 

Categories include Professional, Non-professional and Longstanding Contribution to search and rescue. 

Any person or organisation can nominate candidates by completing the official form. Nominations close Sunday 10 July 2023.

Submit your nomination now..

Updated Marine notice on VHF marine radios

We recently issued an updated Marine notice providing information on how the automatic channel switching feature in VHF digital selective calling (DSC) radios may impact voice communications during safety critical operations. 

Users should be aware of the implications of the automatic channel switching feature in VHF DSC radios being enabled during safety critical operations. Instructions on its use should be included in the ship’s bridge procedures. 

Lack of maintenance results in engine fire

In this month’s safety lesson a vessel's port engine caught fire, with the investigation finding that regular planned engine maintenance was not in place at the time of the incident.  

The report demonstrates the importance of ensuring that effective planned maintenance and routine inspections are a part of your safety management system.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report 

A passenger was flung overboard from a catamaran’s trampoline net and a crew member received an electric shock from a damaged power board. 

These are just some of the events included in the latest incident report. 

During April 2023, there were 80 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 16 were serious and one was very serious.

AMSA update April 2023

In this edition:

Could you afford for your critical systems to fail?

An effective maintenance plan should consider more than just main engine servicing.

Develop and implement a maintenance plan that takes into consideration the critical systems on board, including fuel, electrical, propulsion, steering, communications, navigation, bilge pumping arrangements, anchoring, and sewage.

What are your test dates for residual current devices? When was the last time you tested your bilge pump and high-water alarms?

Staying on top of maintenance for your vessel operation can help you reduce unexpected costs from breakdowns, which could put your vessel out of service and you out of business.

Check out our maintenance plan essentials for guidance and templates.

Planned maintenance under spotlight

Maintenance and documentation relating to vessel structure, machinery, safety equipment and certification will be under the spotlight in May and June during a focused inspection campaign.

Marine Inspectors will be targeting these important requirements under Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operational requirements). 

Find more information about the focused inspection campaign.

Have your say on the proposed extension of Marine Order 501

Tell us what you think about the proposed extension of Marine Order 501 (Administration–national law) (MO501). The current version commenced in 2013 and is due to expire (‘sunset’) on 1 October 2023. 

AMSA proposes remaking MO501 with some minor changes aimed at improving readability and clarity.

Have your say on proposed changes to Marine Order 71

We want your feedback on the proposed changes to Marine Order 71 (Masters and deck officers) 2014 (MO71).  

MO71 relates to the standards of competence and other conditions required to be a qualified Master or deck officer under the Navigation Act 2012. It also gives effect to the International Convention on Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW).

Changes to operational safety requirements - consultation feedback report available

Between November 2022 and January 2023, we consulted on changes to Marine Order 504, which contains certificate of operation and operational requirements for domestic commercial vessels.    

The changes will come into effect on 1 August 2023. They include requirements for crewing arrangements and a requirement for lifejacket wear to be addressed in a vessel’s risk assessment and safety management system. 

Learn more and read the feedback report.

Now available — your feedback on international requirements for fishing gear marking and reporting

To help Australia shape new international requirements, we recently asked for your views on the marking of fishing gear and the reporting of lost or discharged fishing gear.

We received 10 submissions during the consultation period from a variety of stakeholders.

Stay tuned for the outcomes of the discussions at the International Maritime Organization on this.

Nominations open for the 2022-23 Australian Search and Rescue awards

The Awards are open to individuals, groups or organisations that have made a significant contribution to search and rescue in Australia and deserve recognition at a national level.

Any person or organisation can nominate candidates by completing the official form. Categories include Professional, Non-professional and Longstanding Contribution to search and rescue.

Apply online to join Regional Safety Committees

Our new online form makes it easier to apply to join your local Regional Safety Committee (RSC).

RSCs provide an influential opportunity for over 300 industry stakeholders to share their challenges and expertise with us. We have RSC representation in each state and territory (except the ACT), and dozens of industry sectors represented across Australia. 

In March 2023, AMSA held RSC meetings across Australia with over 80 representatives from the domestic commercial vessel industries. We shared localised information about inspection activities and heard feedback on Marine Orders that impact your operations. 

We welcome new-member expressions of interest from organisations and sole operators in each region with a passion for improving safety; representation of a defined sector within your region; and appropriate knowledge and experience in the sector.

Apply online and learn more about Regional Safety Committees.

Register to attend International Day for Women in Maritime panel event

We are proud to support and highlight the role of women in maritime on the upcoming International Day for Women in Maritime.  

Join us, WISTA International, Port of Newcastle and The Nautical Institute for a panel discussion to discuss the unique challenges and initiatives in improving diversity, equity, and inclusion for women in the maritime industry.

The event will be held on Thursday 18 May 2023. You can attend online or in person in Newcastle.

Poor risk assessment of river entrance bar crossing results in near misses with surfers

This month’s safety lesson report demonstrates the importance of performing and documenting effective risk assessments to ensure the safety of people on and near vessels.

Every month, we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

A jet ski collided at high speed with an anchored tender vessel, and a fire broke out in another vessel’s engine room. These are just some of the events included in the latest incident report.

During March 2023, there were 90 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 27 were serious and 2 were very serious.

Read our monthly incident report.
AMSA update March 2023

In this edition:

Don’t have time for breakdowns?

Staying on top of maintenance for your vessel operation can help you reduce unexpected costs from breakdowns, which could put your vessel out of service and you out of business.

Spend a few minutes regularly on your maintenance plan and logs, save yourself a backlog of time-consuming paperwork later. 

Develop and implement a maintenance plan, and log work undertaken for your vessel operation.

Consider the structural condition of the vessel, periodic survey requirements for the vessel, its machinery, systems and safety equipment, which might need servicing or replacing.

Use our guides and templates: Planned maintenance

Inspection insights revealed for 2022

The analysis has been published in our inaugural ‘Inspections Report’, which reflects on all inspections conducted in 2022, and importantly, provides an analysis of emerging trends and risks to safety which we will then address in our forthcoming National Compliance Plan. 

The inaugural Inspections Report replaces our previous Port State Control Annual Reports and expands on the types of vessels we have inspected over the course of the year.

Read the full report: Inspections report 2022

Torres Strait artwork takes off

The design concept features a shark, known as Baydham in Kala Lagaw Ya language, an important symbol in the Torres Strait region. This striking design has been wrapped around the front section of the Challenger 604 rescue aircraft, a critical part of AMSA’s search and rescue fleet in Australia.

“Every time the Cairns-based Challenger rescues a fisher, boater or seafarer, Mr Nona’s art will be a symbol that represents AMSA’s commitment to safe and clean seas,” AMSA Executive Director for Response Mark Morrow said.

Check out more photos of the artwork on AMSA’s rescue aircraft in our media release.

AMSA launches new diversity and inclusion plan

This month marks an important milestone in our diversity and inclusion agenda, with the launch of our new Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Strategy 2023-2027.

The strategy outlines our commitment to increase workforce diversity and inclusion through a variety of initiatives to increase representation of underrepresented groups, retain emerging talent and job knowledge, and ensure an inclusive work environment.

Payment portal unavailable 13-17 April

The online payment portal on the AMSA website will be unavailable from 5:00 pm on Thursday 13 April 2023 AEST to 8:00 am on Monday 17 April 2023. This outage is due to an upgrade to our finance systems. 

This affects the following AMSA online forms: 504, 521, 523, 537, 547, 553, 566, 579, 600, 649, 776, and 777. You can submit the form as normal, but you will not be able to pay at the time of online submission. 

Please ensure you plan ahead and submit and pay for time-sensitive applications, such as those for temporary operations, by Tuesday 11 April 2023. Contact AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484 if you have an urgent requirement to operate.

New air pollution regulations now in effect

Marine Order 97 (MO97) deals with the prevention of air pollution from vessels and gives effect to the MARPOL Regulations for the Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships (Annex VI). MO97 applies to regulated Australian vessels, domestic commercial vessels, recreational vessels and foreign vessels.

Find out more about Marine Order 97.

Domestic engagement drives AMSA policy

This year we have held discussions with industry and government on issues including decarbonisation and emerging technologies, seafarer certification demographics, and our enforcement powers relating to certificates of competency. 

These discussions will help us to shape better safety outcomes for Australian seafarers and domestic commercial vessel operators.

Learn more about our domestic committees.

Unheeded weather warnings result in flooding 

This month’s safety lesson report demonstrates how failure to recognise foreseeable risks can lead to a rescue operation. 

Every month, we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel.  

Monthly incident report

A crew member was struck by a saw shark and a hire ‘n’ drive vessel was hit by a recreational rowing vessel, resulting in significant damage to both. These are just some of the events included in the latest incident report.  

During February 2023, there were 91 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 13 were serious and one was very serious.

Have your say on our performance as a regulator

We continually assess our regulatory performance so we can better support safe vessel operations and combat marine pollution–and we would like to hear from you. Please fill out a short survey and to help us improve our practices.

The survey will take about 2 minutes to complete. 

AMSA update February 2023

In this edition:

Additional survey reminder letters for vessel owners

Domestic commercial vessel owners will soon receive more frequent reminders to complete initial and periodic surveys. 

We are currently working on a MARS (MARitime Safety system) update that will see additional reminder letters generated for certificate of survey and Exemption 40 applications that remain open for more than three months. 

These letters will continue to be generated every three months until all surveys are completed, or the applicant opts out of receiving the reminders; and will provide applicants with greater visibility of their application status. 

Reminder letters will also be generated for overdue periodic surveys. 

Navy and AMSA join to enhance maritime operations

On 16 February AMSA Chief Executive, Mick Kinley, and Chief of Navy Australia, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AM, Royal Australian Navy; signed a Memorandum of Understanding which sets out the procedure for vessels moving between commercial and naval service.

The Navy currently operates a number of civilian-crewed ships, and this MOU will, in the short term, allow them to come into and out of naval service in a streamlined way.

Help shape AMSA services through user research

Join our user research community to test new or improved products, services and content. 

By joining, you’ll be invited to complete surveys and share your opinions, as well as participate in interviews, activity sessions and workshops. You can accept or decline our invitations based on your interest and availability.

The feedback you provide helps us deliver a better service to domestic commercial vessel owners and operators, and our other stakeholders.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident report

During January 2023, there were 104 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 22 were serious.

Planned maintenance failure leads to vessel sinking

This month’s safety lesson report demonstrates how failure to upkeep regular and well-documented maintenance procedures can lead to a vessel sinking. 

Every month we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel. 

AMSA update January 2023

In this edition:

Tell us what you want to hear about 

Happy New Year to all domestic commercial vessel owners, operators, and crew. We look forward to another year of safe and clean seas.

We’re always looking to improve the way we communicate with you, so we want to know what’s important to you. Please email us at communication@amsa.gov.au with any ideas on the kinds of content you would like to read about here.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact us.

New watertight and weathertight integrity standards

From 1 January 2023 new watertight and weathertight integrity standards have come into effect for new domestic commercial vessel builds. 

The new standards address safety risks highlighted by several fatal and serious incidents over the last four decades. Contained in Section C2 of the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV), they replace three technical standards contained in the Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) Code, and reflect current technology, international standards and best practice.

Compliance with the new standard will be voluntary until 1 January 2025. New vessel constructions commencing in this period will have the option of complying with either NSCV section C2 or USL Code sections 5C, 5D and 7. However, vessel owners will need to comply with one or the other — not elements of both.  

Help us help you - our approach to compliance 

As a modern regulator, we are committed to transparency and collaboration with industry, which is exactly why we’ve just released the latest iteration of our Compliance Strategy.

The AMSA Compliance Strategy 2023-27 outlines our approach to compliance for the next four years — data-driven, risk-based and proportionate with the ultimate goal of minimising regulatory impact on industry while maximising safety and environmental outcomes.

Read the 2023-27 Compliance Strategy.

New air pollution regulations now in effect

From 1 January 2023, new short-term air pollution requirements apply to owners, operators, and agents of Regulated Australian Vessels that are cargo and passenger vessels; and to foreign flagged cargo and passenger vessels operating in Australian waters. 
International cargo and passenger vessels of 400GT and above are now required to make technical energy efficiency improvements under the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) framework. 
Ships of 5,000GT and above are required to make operational energy efficiency improvements under the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) framework.
      
Find out more about Marine Order 97.

Monthly domestic commercial vessel incident reports

During December 2022, there were 120 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels. Of these, 21 were serious and one was very serious.
      
Read the incident report 

Cray pot rope tangle sends person overboard 

This month’s safety lesson report examines how regular drills on safety management system emergency procedures led to a person overboard being saved quickly.

Every month we share an overview of a domestic commercial vessel incident investigation, and the safety lesson you can learn to ensure safe operations on board your vessel. 
      
Read the monthly safety lesson.

 

Last updated: 31 January 2024

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