The 275th meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, in Canberra, ACT.

ECDIS familiarisation ensures that master and navigating officers are familiar with the specific make and model of the ECDIS equipment onboard (including backup) before taking charge of a navigational watch.

We have diverse teams operating all around Australia.

Obligations of registered agents of Australian registered ships.

Descriptions of the courses available to responders under the National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies.

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.

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.

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

Download a copy of the requirements for each near coastal certificate.

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.

The oil spill from the Oceanic Grandeur in Torres Strait in March 1970 highlighted Australia’s lack of preparedness at the time to deal with a major oil spill in the marine environment.

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.