On 19 November 2020, a class 3B fishing vessel grounded on a beach after the master and two deckhands, fell asleep. The investigation identified that there was no clear procedure for standing watch. Fatigue also contributed to the poor decisions made by the crew around who was supposed to be on watch that morning.

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.

Generic equivalent solutions (GES) support national standards by allowing the use of new technology and other solutions.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 have read and answered your questions about the new requirements for domestic commercial vessels that carry passengers.

Marine safety agencies deliver essential services across Australia, including local waterways management, environmental oversight, pilotage, navigation aids, ports, harbours and mooring operations, and recreational boating support.

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.

How to get a Certificate of recognition for Masters, Mates (Deck and officers) and Engineer officers.

Most services for operators and crew of domestic commercial vessels are now provided by us instead of Transport for NSW Service.

Most services for operators and crew of domestic commercial vessels are now provided by us instead of Transport Safety Victoria.

We know it's not just about the salary, so we offer a range of attractive benefits.

Find out the requirements you need to fulfill to obtain an international endorsement.

Most services for operators and crew of domestic commercial vessels are now provided by us instead of Department of Transport, Western Australia.