This page outlines the types of survey reports and details an AMSA assessor looks for when reviewing an application for approval.

Vessels refused access to Australian ports and vessels given warnings in relation to serious deficiencies.

We have conducted these inspection campaigns in the past, focusing on specific deficiencies and outcomes.

Find out which marine radio certificate you need and how to get one.

What changes to Marine Order 54 (Coastal pilotage) 2014 (MO54) did we seek feedback on?

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

Our regulatory program is prepared annually and contains details of planned and completed changes to our regulatory instruments

A fire occurred on a passenger vessel in a busy harbour. The master and crew took immediate action and followed emergency procedures to disembark and transfer 73 passengers safely to another ferry. The vessel’s structural and fixed firefighting systems worked effectively to contain and extinguish the fire.

We are responsible for approving coastal pilotage training providers and courses.

Lifejackets save lives

This safety alert draws the attention of vessel operators to the importance of planned maintenance in ensuring safe operation of domestic commercial vessels.

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

Watch the video of Mark Jacobs who has hung up his snorkel and fins to help save lives across 10 per cent of the Earth’s surface.

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.

In the early afternoon of 30 May 2022, a hire and drive sailing catamaran began to take on water before sinking shortly after departing the marina. Onboard was the charterer, their family and a briefer who was in control of the vessel. The investigation established that following recent maintenance, an inspection plate had not been replaced, allowing water ingress. It was further identified that the charter company’s maintenance procedures did not suitably document handing over and/or tagging of removed items during maintenance work.

This five-year outlook of future action covers specific industry issues, international developments, priorities for standards, and legislative expiries.

A passenger vessel collided with an unseen rock, resulting in the injury of a passenger. The master navigated the vessel into unfamiliar waters that was not a normal or planned part of the passenger tour experience, and not authorised by the tour company. Owners and operators should ensure masters continue to conform to the planned or authorised route for the services they offer.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has developed tools to support the implementation of the low sulphur fuel limit.

The 278th meeting of the Board was held virtually via MS Teams on Wednesday, 22 April 2026.