During a private charter a passenger fell down a stairwell and sustained serious injuries. The area around the top of the stairwell had a recess that reduced the floor area slightly and could be missed during movements. The stairs themselves were not found to be contributory to this incident. However, the spiral design proved problematic for providing post-incident medical assistance for the passenger. Any area that may present a safety risk to passengers onboard a vessel should be risk assessed, with appropriate control measures put in place to ensure passenger safety.

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

AMSA port State control inspectors will be using the checklist below when inspecting ships as part of our cargo securing focused inspection campaign. Use this checklist to prepare for the inspection, and to help you ensure your cargo is secure. Below is a sample of the focused inspection campaign checklist.

We value your feedback. You can give a compliment, make a complaint or offer a suggestion to help us improve our services.

The Modernised Australian Ship Tracking and Reporting System (MASTREP) is a ship reporting system designed to contribute to safety of life at sea.

Do a lifejacket risk assessment. Your safety, and the safety of your passengers and crew, depends on it. Wearing a lifejacket can help prevent a tragic incident.

The North-East Shipping Management Plan (NE SMP) identifies actions based on information regarding the nature of shipping activity in the north-east region.

Preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships.

On 29 October 1981 the 213-metre 16,336 gross tonnage Ro-Ro container vessel, Anro Asia, grounded near the northern tip of Bribie Island while entering Moreton Bay.

Get your Master or deck certificate of competency revalidated before it expires.

Find out more about how to get a certificate of medical fitness, and why you need one.

On 6 November 2021, while enroute, a passenger charter (Class 1E) vessel’s inadequately secured swim platform gate opened when a passenger and toddler leant against it causing the two passengers to fall into the water. The investigation identified that there was no locking bolt on the gate, no risk assessments and no passenger verification procedures in place. 

All ships must follow the requirements of MARPOL Annex V when discharging cargo residue.

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

AMSA occasionally seeks help and support from private companies to deliver its Search and Rescue (SAR) services.

Search for a registered ship on the Australian General and International Shipping Registers.