The National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) provides standards for vessel design, construction and equipment for domestic commercial vessels.

We are responsible for providing navigational systems and services to facilitate the safe and efficient navigation of ships within Australian waters.

Fitting out all spaces on the vessel with the right fire protection measures.

AMSA approved Training Organisations currently delivering the personal survival techniques for international qualifications.

AMSA approved training organisations currently delivering the fire prevention and fire fighting—basic training.

AMSA approved training organisations currently delivering the security awareness training

Access the Emergency Management Handbooks and Manuals.

On the evening of 2 April 2022, a Sydney Harbour ferry was operating a regular route between Manly and Circular Quay. A group of young males were exhibiting risk taking behaviour on the deck during adverse weather conditions. One of the group jumped, stumbled, and fell overboard without a lifejacket. The master came about and followed the ferry track back at dead slow to find the person overboard (POB). The POB had the presence of mind to use his mobile phone torch light in the dark to alert the master of his presence and was rescued.

On this page you can find copies of previous editions and amendments to the NSCV.

This consultation feedback report is based on submissions to us via an online form and Facebook.

How to meet the medical requirements for domestic seafarer certificates

Apply for acceptance on the oil spill control agents register.

The information you provide in your incident report plays an important part in guiding the way we improve maritime safety for everybody on the water. By reporting marine incidents to us, you are also meeting your reporting obligations under Australian laws.

Read a transcript of the webinar 'Fatigue management on domestic commercial vessels' held on 8 May 2026.

Standards for class 1 and class 2 fast craft that are at least 35m in equivalent length.

As the national standard is updated, generic equivalent standards (GES) are being superseded.

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is the main international convention for addressing ship sourced pollution.