If you are a Traditional Inhabitant of the Torres Strait and use your TIB to catch seafood and sell it, your boat is being used as a domestic commercial vessel. This page explains what that means, when you can use the TIB-specific exemption, and the steps you must follow to operate safely and legally.

On 22 January 1982 at approximately 9 pm, the oil tanker Esso Gippsland was in the process of loading at Port Stanvac jetty, South Australia, when a large quantity of industrial fuel oil leaked from the air vent and ullage port of its no.2 starboard tank.

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

Be prepared before your trip. Stay safe on land.

We administer the national law, regulations and marine orders in implementing the national system.

This marine notice draws attention to responsible navigational practices which masters and officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships operating in Australian waters should follow.

We are responsible for responding to marine oil spills and supporting the National Plan for Maritime Emergency partners in doing the same within their jurisdictions.

Fatigue management requirements for domestic commercial vessels (DCVs).

The 275th meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, in Canberra, ACT.

Our 24/7 centre responds to search and rescue (SAR) incidents throughout Australia.

Our structure gives you an idea of which area can help you when you get in touch.

On 3 April 2010, the Shen Neng 1 was traversing a well-known shipping route south of the Douglas Shoal when it ran aground 38 nautical miles east of Great Keppel Island at about 5.30 pm.

Prevention from marine pollution is imperative to protect Australia’s unique marine environments and the livelihoods of thousands of Australians.

Our regulatory program is prepared annually and contains details of planned and completed changes to our regulatory instruments.

Advice for operators and masters on regulations specific to the transfer of oil cargoes between oil tankers at sea for domestic commercial vessels, regulated Australian vessels and foreign flagged vessels.