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.

We collect and analyse information from reported marine incidents to improve safety across the maritime industry.

Some vessels do not have to be surveyed. Depending on the type of vessel, you may need to apply for approval to operate.

Australian legislative requirements preventing pollution from discharge of garbage.

The oil spill from the Oceanic Grandeur in Torres Strait in March 1970 highlighted Australia’s lack of preparedness at the time to deal with a major oil spill in the marine environment.

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

This safety alert aims to raise awareness of the risk involved with getting on and off domestic commercial vessels.

This safety alert draws the attention of vessel operators to the importance of planned maintenance in ensuring safe operation of domestic commercial vessels.

Our range of navigation services includes marine navigation and e-navigation.

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

In this edition we talk about audits and application assessments.

In this edition we talk about audits and application assessments, compass adjustment requirements, uncrewed barges and more.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has developed tools to support the implementation of the low sulphur fuel limit.

The Sylvan Arrow was found guilty of discharging an oily mixture into the sea west of Wilson’s Promontory, Victoria on 18 December 1999.

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