We have intergovernmental agreements with state and territory governments in Australia.

Tell us what you think about our draft Heritage Strategy 2022-2025.

For vessels in distress or in need of assistance there can be, at times, a need to find an appropriate ‘place of refuge’, where steps can be taken to stabilise or repair the vessel and prevent the situation from worsening.

The RFL applies to most sea-going vessels operating in Australia. It helps fund the cost of safety activities, such as vessel inspections and surveys.

There are few exceptions to the prohibition of garbage discharge under MARPOL. Breaches can result in significant penalties.

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

Our response to the risk of oil spills on wildlife.

We provide a search and rescue (SAR) service for Australia. This allows us to quickly deploy a SAR response for anyone in distress.

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

Find out about the special arrangements for vessels which meet the definition of ‘tender’ under the national law.

Advice on maintaining rescue boats in working order.

Follow these steps if you wish to operate your vessel commercially outside of the Australian Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ).

Requirements for national colours of flags for Australian ships.

Knowledge of regulations and duties will help you navigate safely on the seas.

If you own or operate a domestic commercial vessel in Australia, you are required to obtain a certificate of operation before you operate the vessel.