Arrangements between government and industry under the National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies to respond to shipping casualties.

If you have been issued with an infringement notice, you have 28 days to pay the infringement penalty or contact us about your payment options.

The Sanko Harvest struck a reef off Esperance, Western Australia on 14 February 1991, and broke up over the next fortnight.

We sought feedback on proposed changes to Marine Order 53 (Vessels in polar waters) 2016 (MO53). The changes will ensure the marine order aligns with the new requirements following amendments to SOLAS and the Polar Code.

Find out how to get an interim certificate of competency (ICoC) when you apply for a certificate for the first time.

It’s important to maintain your lifejacket according to the manufacturer’s instructions so it works when you need it.

AMSA’s mission is ensuring safe vessel operations, combating marine pollution and rescuing people in distress.

On the evening of 29 May 2022, a commercial fishing vessel was on a voyage from Mackay to Cairns when the master noticed an auxiliary engine alarm. Upon lifting the engine room hatch, the master saw smoke and an orange glow and the engine room subsequently caught fire. The master quickly made the decision that they would not be able to fight the fire without jeopardising their safety and abandoned ship. An SMS risk assessment on appropriate crewing on a voyage greater than 12 hours duration should be undertaken in these situations.

Check if AMSA recognises your country or overseas STCW certificate, and what this means for your application in Australia.

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. 

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.

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.

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

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Find safety equipment guides for non-survey vessels based on class and type of operation.

The use of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) on board ships contributes significantly to the safety of navigation.

The National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies (the National Plan) sets out national arrangements, policies and principles for managing maritime environmental emergencies.

On 22 March 2023, AMSA launched new artwork on the Cairns-based Challenger aircraft, designed by Torres Strait artist Michael Nona.

We are a team of dedicated professionals – hear more about our experiences working at AMSA.