On 30 August 1992 the fuel tank of Era was ruptured by the bow of the tug Turmoil during berthing operations at Port Bonython, South Australia, during high winds. Approximately 300 tonnes of bunker fuel was released into Spencer Gulf.

In this edition we explain correct and incorrect use of conditions.

Australia implements a range of standards and regulations to protect the marine environment from pollution.

On 6 October 2022, two crewmembers were setting cray pots on the port and starboard side of a fishing vessel. During one setting, the crewmember’s foot (on the port side) became entangled in the cray pot’s rope dragging them over the side. The second crewmember raised the alarm and the master immediately stopped the vessel and instructed the crewmember to attach the line to the pot winch. The master and crewmember, having conducted regular emergency procedure drills, quickly raised the person overboard (PoB) via the pot winch, deployed the overboard ladder, and cut the rope. The PoB sustained some water in the lungs but was otherwise unharmed.

AMSA is committed to safe and clean seas. AMSA, on behalf of Australia, is responsible for the implementation of numerous international conventions and codes to which Australia is a signatory.

We’re holding roundtable discussions to foster collaboration within the Australian shipping industry as it transitions away from carbon-based fuels.

On 28 July 1988, the livestock carrier Al Qurain struck a wharf heavily while berthing in Portland, Victoria and severely ruptured a side fuel tank. An estimated 184 tonnes of fuel oil escaped into Portland Harbour.

The Australian states and territories work with us to coordinate an effective search and rescue (SAR) service.

The safety and medical equipment you need will depend on your vessel and operation.

South Australia hosted the 2017 National Plan Exercise from 5 to 7 December in Adelaide.

We offer nationally recognised units of competency in marine pollution response and incident management.

Under the National Plan, we have marine pollution response equipment positioned in strategic locations around Australia to support response to an incident.

Tonnages for each Royal Australian Navy (RAN) vessel, current, decommissioned, and under construction.

We sought feedback on proposed changes to Marine Order 25 (Equipment – lifesaving) 2014 (MO25). MO25 sets out requirements for carrying and testing life-saving equipment and recovering people from water.

On 21 May 1990 an extensive oil slick was sighted approximately four nautical miles south-east of Cape Otway by the pilot of a light aircraft. The Australian-flagged tanker Arthur Phillip was later established as the source of the spill.