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.

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

Constructing the hull, decks, superstructures, deckhouses and bulkheads.

The purpose of this marine notice is to draw attention to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) non-mandatory revised guidelines for the reduction of underwater radiated noise from shipping to address adverse impacts on marine life. 

Radiotelephones, signalling lights, EPIRBs, and satellite communications equipment.

You can prepare in case your ship is inspected during a visit to an Australian port.

In this edition we look at the most common reasons for certificate of survey refusal.

Find out about AMSA’s strategic priorities and stay informed about our objectives, challenges and planned activities for 2025-26 to 2028-29.

In this edition we talk about recent surveyor audits.

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.

AMSA approved training organisations currently delivering the fire prevention and fire fighting—basic training.

AMSA approved Training Organisations currently delivering the personal survival techniques for international qualifications.

AMSA approved training organisations currently delivering the security awareness training

Our search and rescue incidents from 2017–18.

All ships of 5,000 gross tonnage and above engaged in international voyages must collect data on fuel consumption, distance travelled and hours underway.

The North-East Shipping Management Plan identifies actions based on information about the nature of shipping activity in the north-east region as well as the experience and knowledge of members of the North-East Water Space Management Working Group.

The Sanko Harvest struck a reef off Esperance, Western Australia on 14 February 1991, and broke up over the next fortnight.

Carry the right safety equipment, including lifejackets, life rafts, and first aid kits.

Read previous AMSA update editions from 2024