We provide a search and rescue (SAR) service for Australia. This allows us to quickly deploy a SAR response for anyone in distress.

In this edition we explain how to complete a shaft survey report, tell you about changes to MARS, changes to surveyor identity cards and much more.

Chemical dispersants are one of the response tools available during oil spill responses.

An explosion occurred on a charter fishing vessel whilst berthed. The investigation identified that the ignition source was a lithium-ion battery that was not holding charge connected to a battery charger in a way that bypassed the battery management safety system. The vessel was beyond repair following the explosion.

Apply for acceptance on the oil spill control agents register.

Find out who can be the designated person for a DCV and what they need to do.

This marine notice draws attention to responsible navigational practices which masters and officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships operating in Australian waters should follow.

This marine notice draws attention to important information regarding the proper operation of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), including the importance of adequate and up to date Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs), for ships visiting Australian ports.

On 21 July 1991 Greek tanker Kirki lost its bow off the coast of Western Australia, resulting in a major pollution incident.

A charter vessel with passengers was conducting a cruise around Sydney Harbour when it narrowly missed an unlit runabout at night. The vessel ran aground, and two attempts to tow the vessel off the sandbank were unsuccessful. The investigation found that the master did not risk-assess the route and respective conditions. The vessel safety management system provided the master with no clear direction on safe routes to follow. The command, control, and communication with and between the crew in relation to emergency procedures and response was ineffective.

Read previous AMSA update editions from 2024

An index to guide you through the supporting documents for the National Plan.

Australian legislative requirements preventing pollution from discharge of garbage.

Our approach to comply with the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law 2012 from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.

Find out how to complete the Coxswain Grade 3 declaration (AMSA form 1882) and the on-water tasks required.

During a private charter a passenger fell down a stairwell and sustained serious injuries. The area around the top of the stairwell had a recess that reduced the floor area slightly and could be missed during movements. The stairs themselves were not found to be contributory to this incident. However, the spiral design proved problematic for providing post-incident medical assistance for the passenger. Any area that may present a safety risk to passengers onboard a vessel should be risk assessed, with appropriate control measures put in place to ensure passenger safety.

In this edition we look at the most common reasons for certificate of survey refusal.

ECDIS familiarisation ensures that master and navigating officers are familiar with the specific make and model of the ECDIS equipment onboard (including backup) before taking charge of a navigational watch.