What changes did we seek feedback on?

As a regulatory body, we are required to publish a range of information about our functions and how we carry them out. We do this under the information publication scheme.

We have issued an updated marine notice for Under Keel Clearance Management (UKCM) in Torres Strait. This notice outlines the management framework, summarises the responsibilities and reminds all coastal pilots transiting ships when they are required to use the Under Keel Clearance Management (UKCM) system.

On Sunday 9 January 2012, the cargo vessel the MV Tycoon broke free from its mooring at Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island, and washed against the seawall and nearby cliff face. The ship had been loading phosphate at the time of the incident.

This five-year outlook of future action covers specific industry issues, international developments, priorities for standards, and legislative expiries.

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.

This marine notice highlights the importance of ensuring navigation bridge visibility on all vessels sailing in Australian waters. Vessel operators, masters and navigational officers should take note of its content.

Find out about the process of obtaining a near coastal certificate.

We have released some safety guidance for commercial parasailing operators. Parasailing vessels are considered domestic commercial vessels under the National law.

Using an advanced under keel clearance management (UKCM) system will reduce your chances of running aground.

AMSA has a fair, and non-discriminatory procurement complaints handling process.

This marine notice advises ship operators and owners of the hazards of transporting battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs).

Procedures for STCW courses provided by Registered training organisations including e-learning, distance learning and blended learning, GMDSS ROC and short courses.

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.

A Class 1 passenger vessel’s port engine caught fire whilst northeast of Fraser Island with 82 passengers and crew onboard. The investigation found that regular planned engine maintenance, in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications, was not in place at the time of the incident. The crew’s response to the incident was immediate and effective. The transfer of the 77 passengers to a nearby vessel, which attended the distress call within 10 minutes, was undertaken quickly and effectively by the master and crew.

The North-East Shipping Management Plan identifies actions based on information about the nature of shipping activity in the north-east region as well as the experience and knowledge of members of the North-East Water Space Management Working Group.