Published on Australian Maritime Safety Authority (https://www.amsa.gov.au)

New build trends in Australia's domestic fleet (2023 - 24)

Explore the trends in vessel design, materials and certification shaping Australia’s domestic fleet. See what was built, where, and how vessels are evolving to meet industry needs.

A large bulk carrier with an orange and black hull is underway at sea, accompanied by three red vessels nearby. A heavy industrial structure is secured on the carrier’s port side deck. The ship’s funnel features a bold red, white, and blue stripe design.

About the report

In 2023–24, AMSA certified 1,445 new domestic commercial vessels. These vessels support industries including offshore energy, aquaculture, tourism and transport.

Our New Build Trends report highlights how the fleet is evolving — from larger, more specialised vessels to the rise of autonomous technology, new materials like HDPE and the emergence of alternative fuels. These trends reflect how vessel design, construction and use are shifting to meet industry needs.

Snapshot of 2023-24 new builds

FactDetail
Total new domestic commercial vessels certified1,445
Non-survey vessels (EX02)957
Survey vessels363
Restricted C vessels (EX40)126
Autonomous vessels30 (approximately)
Average length (excluding non-survey)15.02m
Largest vessel123.8m (MinRes Coolibah & Airlie)
Smallest vessel2m (inflatable for seabed survey)
Most common materialsAluminium

Read the full report

The full report includes:

Download New Build Trends report 2023-24 PDF4.64 MB

Find out more

Last updated: 5 June 2025
Source URL: http://www.amsa.gov.au/new-build-trends-australias-domestic-fleet-2023-24

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