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

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.

Toxic gases can quickly build up on board vessels and kill a crew member or passenger in minutes. Identify equipment, appliances and systems that create these gases and reduce the risks.

Dispersants can be effective response tools. Use of dispersants is dependent on many factors including timing, properties of the oil, and logistics.

Australia has an interest in ensuring that the ships which visit our ports and transit our waters are seaworthy, have competent crews, and are able to safely navigate through our sensitive marine areas.

Most services for operators and crew of domestic commercial vessels are now provided by us instead of the Northern Territory Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics.

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.

This figure describes Modern Slavery Risks

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

A crew member’s arm was crushed between the vessel and a pylon while tending to mooring lines.

From 1 January 2022, AMSA will provide 24-hour nationwide monitoring of high frequency (HF) radiotelephone distress, urgency and safety communications in Australia.

Disconnection of LPG system the source of explosion on a houseboat

Guidance on crewing of domestic commercial vessels as per Schedule 1 Clause 6 - Appropriate crewing and Clause 8 - Minimum crewing of Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation - national law) 2024. Schedule 1 applies to all vessels other than class 4 vessels.

Following a report to AMSA, and subsequent investigation, the Pax Phoenix was fined for illegally discharging oily water into the marine environment near Holbourne Island, Queensland on 2 September 2001.

Requirements for national colours of flags for Australian ships.

Since 2006, we have provided an emergency towing vessel in the Torres Strait and Great Barrier Reef to protect the marine environment.

As a statutory authority, we work with the guidance of legislation.

Learn what you need to do to prepare for and take your oral exam.

Get the latest insights from vessel inspections including detentions, common safety risks and compliance performance.