The automatic identification system (AIS) works automatically and continuously, regardless of where a vessel is located.

Find out about AMSA’s performance and stay informed about our progress against key initiatives for 2024–25.

In this edition we talk about audits and application assessments.

AMSA’s mission is ensuring safe vessel operations, combating marine pollution and rescuing people in distress.

The 273rd meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday, 25 June 2025 in Canberra, ACT.

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

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.

In 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted a revised strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

The inaugural Australian VTS Award saw Brisbane VTS operators Todd Stewart and Ricky Blake commended for their actions, which had a profound impact on the outcome of two men and a young boy lost at sea.

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.

Our search and rescue modules provide background information as well as information about preparation, principles of how to conduct a search and rescue operation and how to respond to specific kinds of emergency.

Monitoring an oil spill is necessary to address concerns raised about its effects and the impact of the associated cleanup response.

Maritime discharges of oil and noxious liquid substances during emergencies and pollution response situations.

Advice about the maximum continuous period that a seafarer can serve on board a vessel without taking leave.

Explore key trends and safety insights from marine incidents reported to AMSA in 2024. Support safer decisions, stronger compliance and better risk management.