On 21 May 1990 an extensive oil slick was sighted approximately four nautical miles south-east of Cape Otway by the pilot of a light aircraft. The Australian-flagged tanker Arthur Phillip was later established as the source of the spill.

There are laws against ship sourced pollution and those responsible may be prosecuted under state or territory legislation.

Find out more about complying with the national system if you are a domestic commercial vessel owner or operator.

The type of EPIRB you need depends on vessel class, length, flotation and operating area.

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.

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.

Safeguard your vessel and operation with an active maintenance plan.

We are committed to nurturing your development and helping you reach your goals.

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.

We are responsible for responding to marine oil spills and supporting the National Plan for Maritime Emergency partners in doing the same within their jurisdictions.

Designing, selecting, and testing anchoring systems.

Standards for class 1 and class 2 fast craft that are at least 35m in equivalent length.

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

Standards for electrical installations, safety, testing and repair.

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.

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.