If you're planning to bring a vessel to Australia, or take a domestic commercial vessel (DCV) on an overseas voyage, you need to comply with Australian regulations and international standards.  

Read previous AMSA update editions from 2024

Learn what you need to do to prepare for and take your oral exam.

The 273rd meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday, 25 June 2025 in Canberra, ACT.

A summary list of major historical oil spill incidents.

Defining a 'novel vessel', their requirements, and pathways to certify them.

The following statistics relate to the complaints received by AMSA since we issued Marine notice 04/2020 (expired 30 September 2020) and Marine notice 10/2020 (expired 28 February 2021).

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

If you are an Australian seafarer, you can use an AMSA approved task book to record your sea service, training and experience on board a vessel.

DCV Safety Alert: 1/2021 aims to raise awareness of recommendations made by the United States, National Transportation Safety Board, following the investigation into the fire and subsequent loss of the passenger vessel Conception.

The short-term measure under the MARPOL Convention requires ships engaged on international voyages to make improvements to deliver a reduction in their carbon intensity by an average of at least 40% by 2030 (compared to 2008 levels), in line with the target set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

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

This consultation feedback report is based on submissions to us via an online form and Facebook.

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is the main international convention for addressing ship sourced pollution.

Figure 1Figure 2Figure 3Figure 4Figure 5

You have a responsibility not to pollute the sea, and to be aware of the laws about oil and garbage pollution from vessels, including fishing vessels.

All domestic commercial vessels under the national law are required to meet design, construction, stability and equipment standards.

Follow these steps to apply for an initial STCW certificate of competency or certificate of proficiency. Find out what you need to do to meet eligibility requirements, complete training and sea service and submit your application.