Resources and advice on how to prepare for your oral exam.

This marine notice highlights the need for shipowners, operators, masters and crews to ensure safe working arrangements are in place for any work involving height and the risk of falling.

From 1 July 2018, new survey requirements for domestic commercial vessels apply. This includes changes to marine order 503 to apply the new periodic survey requirements to all vessels required to be in survey—existing, transitional and new vessels.

Cruise ships capable of accommodating more than 100 passengers in Sydney Harbour are required to limit emissions of sulphur oxides when berthing.

Risk assessments help identify why, when and where lifejackets need to be worn during vessel operations. Wearing a lifejacket can help prevent a tragic incident.

This edition outlines an upcoming campaign on plan approval documentation and fire safety, initial survey recommendations and more.

On 6 February 1988 the Hong Kong registered bulk carrier Sir Alexander Glen lost approximately 450 tonnes of heavy fuel oil into the waters off Port Walcott, Western Australia when a bunker tank was holed by the ship's anchor.

AMSA surveyor’s will be using the checklist below when inspecting ships as part of our safety of navigation focused inspection campaign.

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

All ships must follow the requirements of MARPOL Annex V when discharging cargo residue.

Arrangements between government and industry under the National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies to respond to shipping casualties.

Ships that are not operated and managed to meet applicable standards, and relevant Australian laws, pose an increased risk to seafarers, other ships and the marine environment. These ships may be refused access or granted conditional entry to Australian ports

A charter fishing vessel proceeding to a fishing spot began experiencing progressively worsening weather conditions and water ingress. Despite the owner’s warning prior to departure and passenger complaints, the master continued to the fishing destination. Strong winds and waves hampered anchoring, with water accumulating on deck through the transom door to the point of flooding. The vessel’s EPIRB was deployed, and a rescue helicopter attended, winching the master and passengers to safety.

It is mandatory under Australian law for certain vessels and fixed or floating platforms to carry a garbage management plan, display placards and maintain a garbage record book.

In Australia, domestic commercial vessels are regulated under the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012 (national law act). The National Law Act underpins the National System for Domestic Commercial Vessel Safety (national system).

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

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