In this edition we talk about voluntary suspension: a practical option when you’re not surveying, survey process for Exemption 2 Division 5 vessels applying for a certificate of survey and survey code update in MARS: survey flexibility rollout.

Apply for acceptance on the oil spill control agents register.

On 6 February 1988 the Hong Kong registered bulk carrier Sir Alexander Glen lost approximately 450 tonnes of heavy fuel oil into the waters off Port Walcott, Western Australia when a bunker tank was holed by the ship's anchor.

Operators of Regulated Australian Vessels (RAV) and Foreign Vessels, as well as the shippers of livestock, have obligations when loading and transporting livestock from Australia.

Getting hooked-up is one of the most dangerous situations you can experience on a trawler. Be prepared. Knowing what you and your crew need to do can save lives.

Guidance on ensuring appropriate crewing for safe navigation for domestic commercial vessels.

We seek your feedback on MO503, talk about surveyor responsibilities when making recommendations, applying for specific exemptions, or following up electrical wiring and more.

A passenger ferry was returning from its scheduled service when an unanticipated wave raised its stern and caused its bow to dive under the water. Water rushed over the bow and a significant amount came through the forward portside access door and into the passenger compartment. The master immediately reduced speed, which expelled most of the water overboard. The forward portside access door had been left open by a crew member who was attempting to alleviate sea sickness among some passengers. The action of leaving the door open during the voyage was contrary to the vessel’s survey requirements. Signage requiring the door to be kept closed when underway was reportedly not seen by crew members. This resulted in water entering the vessel creating a potentially unsafe situation.

Arrangements between government and industry under the National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies to respond to shipping casualties.

Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Annex VI) allows ships to use exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) to comply with the 0.50 per cent m/m sulphur fuel oil limit that commenced on 1 January 2020

This marine notice aims to raise awareness of the risks involved with getting on and off vessels.

Globally, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are controlled through emission standards for marine diesel engines with a power output greater than 130 kilowatts (kW).

Our search and rescue incidents from 2016–17.

Our regulatory plan is produced annually and contains planned changes to our regulatory instruments.

This Marine Notice reminds vessel masters, owners and operators about the coastal pilotage requirements that apply within the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait, as prescribed in Marine Order 54 (Coastal pilotage) 2014 (MO54).

Find out about the special arrangements for vessels which meet the definition of ‘tender’ under the national law.

Read a transcript of the webinar 'Simplified safety management system' held on 9 April 2025.

If you suspect misconduct, fraud, or corruption involving AMSA officials, contractors or service providers, you should report it.

Read a transcript of the webinar 'Changes to safety management systems requirements' held 19 March 2025.