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.

In 2024, a range of vessel stability issues caused a trawler to roll over. The master had not followed the vessel’s stability book properly. The investigation also found that the stability book didn’t meet relevant standards.

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

We authorise and audit vessel traffic service (VTS) providers in Australia.

MARPOL Garbage placards (also known as stickers) are mandatory for all vessels of 12 metres or more in length and fixed or floating platforms.

Understand the regulatory requirements under the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessels) National Law 2012 (National Law) for unpowered barges.

Check if AMSA recognises your country or overseas STCW certificate, and what this means for your application in Australia.

Defining a 'novel vessel', their requirements, and pathways to certify them.

This policy has been superseded by the 2018 Compliance and enforcement policy.

The National Plan uses a risk based approach to reduce the impact of maritime environment emergencies.

Complete this form to notify us about a safety concern.

Standards for class 1 and class 2 fast craft that are at least 35m in equivalent length.