A passenger ferry was returning from its scheduled service when an unanticipated wave raised its stern and caused its bow to dive under the water. Water rushed over the bow and a significant amount came through the forward portside access door and into the passenger compartment. The master immediately reduced speed, which expelled most of the water overboard. The forward portside access door had been left open by a crew member who was attempting to alleviate sea sickness among some passengers. The action of leaving the door open during the voyage was contrary to the vessel’s survey requirements. Signage requiring the door to be kept closed when underway was reportedly not seen by crew members. This resulted in water entering the vessel creating a potentially unsafe situation.

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.

AMSA’s invoicing process is changing. From 1 March 2022, all invoices for AMSA must be emailed as a PDF attachment to our new centralised email address (invoices@amsa.gov.au) for automated processing. This will ensure invoices are processed more quickly for payment.

Towing of vessel in distress leads to back injury

On 19 November 2020, a class 3B fishing vessel grounded on a beach after the master and two deckhands, fell asleep. The investigation identified that there was no clear procedure for standing watch. Fatigue also contributed to the poor decisions made by the crew around who was supposed to be on watch that morning.

We inspect domestic commercial vessels to ensure crew, vessel, and operational safety.

Electronic visual distress signals are not a substitute for conventional pyrotechnic flares.

This service charter sets out the standard of service you can expect to receive from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

AMSA surveyor’s will be using the checklist below when inspecting ships as part of our livestock ships focused inspection campaign.

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

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

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

Hours of Work and Rest – 01 May 2022 to 17 June 2022AMSA conducted an Hours of Work and Rest Focused Inspection Campaign (FIC) over the period 01 May 2022 to 17 June 2022.  

Learn how to control the risk of fatigue to your crew and your operation.

The Navigation Act 2012 is legislation which covers international ship and seafarer safety, protect the marine environment where it relates to shipping and the actions of seafarers in Australian waters.

If you suspect misconduct, fraud, or corruption involving AMSA officials, contractors or service providers, you should report it.

Middleton Kirwasi Gwaday travelled from his home country Papua New Guinea to complete a master's degree in Sweden.