AMSA Connect phone services will be closed for the public holiday on Monday 8 June 2026, reopening on Tuesday 9 June 2026. Our search and rescue team will continue to operate during this time.
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.
National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
This is advice for ship owners and masters. We will undertake a focused inspection campaign (FIC) on cargo securing arrangements from 1 August to 31 October 2020. This is in response to recent events where containers have been lost into the sea off the Australian Coast.
AMSA’s invoicing process is changing. From 1 March 2022, all invoices for AMSA must be emailed as a PDF attachment to our new centralised email address (invoices@amsa.gov.au) for automated processing. This will ensure invoices are processed more quickly for payment.
The International safety management code (ISM code) governs the safe operation of ships and pollution prevention. We are responsible for issuing ISM code certification for Australian registered vessels, however AMSA has authorised recognised organisations to conduct this service.
Survey vessels in these classes are required to carry a Scale G first aid kit on board: 1D (with unberthed passengers), 1E (with unberthed passengers), 2D, 2E, 3D and 3E.