This safety alert aims to raise awareness of the risk involved with getting on and off domestic commercial vessels.

In 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted a revised strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

In this edition we explain about National Law audits,

Do a lifejacket risk assessment. Your safety, and the safety of your passengers and crew, depends on it. Wearing a lifejacket can help prevent a tragic incident.

Our search and rescue incidents from 2018–19.

The information you provide in your incident report plays an important part in guiding the way we improve maritime safety for everybody on the water. By reporting marine incidents to us, you are also meeting your reporting obligations under Australian laws.

Australian legislative requirements preventing pollution from discharge of garbage.

The information you provide in your incident report plays an important part in guiding the way we improve maritime safety for everybody on the water. By reporting marine incidents to us, you are also meeting your reporting obligations under Australian laws.

Under Marine Order 503 a transitional vessel is an existing vessel that has: 

Accredited government and private surveyors, and recognised organisations who are qualified to conduct surveys on domestic commercial vessels.

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

This program of regulatory activities was completed during the 2017–2018 financial year.

You can submit your completed Seafarer form 419 or Certificate of competency application form 426 at participating Australia Post retail outlets.

A charter fishing vessel proceeding to a fishing spot began experiencing progressively worsening weather conditions and water ingress. Despite the owner’s warning prior to departure and passenger complaints, the master continued to the fishing destination. Strong winds and waves hampered anchoring, with water accumulating on deck through the transom door to the point of flooding. The vessel’s EPIRB was deployed, and a rescue helicopter attended, winching the master and passengers to safety.

Residual current devices minimise the risk of a person receiving an electric shock or being electrocuted when using plug-in electrical equipment on board vessels.

Marine Order 55 (Vessels carrying industrial personnel) 2024 Consultation Report – Feb - Apr 2024

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

On 6 February 1988 the Hong Kong registered bulk carrier Sir Alexander Glen lost approximately 450 tonnes of heavy fuel oil into the waters off Port Walcott, Western Australia when a bunker tank was holed by the ship's anchor.