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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. 

The automatic identification system (AIS) works automatically and continuously, regardless of where a vessel is located.

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The global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) connects you to coast stations and vessels via satellite and radio communications when you're out at sea.

On 28 July 1988, the livestock carrier Al Qurain struck a wharf heavily while berthing in Portland, Victoria and severely ruptured a side fuel tank. An estimated 184 tonnes of fuel oil escaped into Portland Harbour.

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

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.

All domestic commercial vessels must have a certificate of survey unless exempt.

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.

On Sunday 26 May 1974 the bulk carrier Sygna was involved in a major pollution incident.

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

Most services for operators and crew of domestic commercial vessels are now provided by us instead of Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure.

Instructions for accredited surveyors to conduct surveys and inspections of domestic commercial vessels.

A contractor working on a vessel fell into the water whilst disembarking due to the gap between the wharf and the vessel.  A safe means of access to the vessel was not provided.

We are no longer publishing the name of the certificate holder on a certificate of survey or Exemption 02 (non-survey) and Exemption 40 (Class C restricted operations) approvals.