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

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.

Using an advanced under keel clearance management (UKCM) system will reduce your chances of running aground.

Find out about permitted tolerance, enforcement of requirements and how we will deal with delays in transmitting the VGM electronically.

If special circumstances mean that you require an extension of time for your vessel's periodic survey, you can make an application under for Marine Safety (Periodic survey, equipment certification and compass adjustment) Exemption (Exemption 06).

A passenger ferry was returning from its scheduled service when an unanticipated wave raised its stern and caused its bow to dive under the water. Water rushed over the bow and a significant amount came through the forward portside access door and into the passenger compartment. The master immediately reduced speed, which expelled most of the water overboard. The forward portside access door had been left open by a crew member who was attempting to alleviate sea sickness among some passengers. The action of leaving the door open during the voyage was contrary to the vessel’s survey requirements. Signage requiring the door to be kept closed when underway was reportedly not seen by crew members. This resulted in water entering the vessel creating a potentially unsafe situation.

We are a Commonwealth statutory authority which provides services to the Australian maritime industry. Sometimes we need to seek the help and support of private companies to deliver our services.

DCV operators: Learn how to develop a fatigue management plan. This is a requirement under the national law for Class 1, 2 and 3 vessels, including those eligible for a simplified SMS.

Download and print guidance for international certificates.

The National Law places obligations on maritime operators and other parties to ensure safety of persons and vessels and protection of the marine environment.

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

Read about the changes we have made to the NSCV since 2020.

We gather feedback through consultative committees and public consultation. Feedback from individuals, organisations and government is an important part of policy development and regulatory change.

This safety alert provides guidance to operators of domestic commercial vessels (DCVs) on risks associated with safety management systems inadequately considering electrical systems and other potential fire hazards.

Our search and rescue incidents from 2013–14.

How to work out if your current qualifications can be used to support your application for a domestic certificate of competency.

Globally, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are controlled through emission standards for marine diesel engines with a power output greater than 130 kilowatts (kW).

This marine notice draws attention to the importance of providing shore leave to seafarers, for ships visiting Australian ports.