In this edition we talk about correct use of the AMSA 586 form following a survey, draft standards on marina and boat electrical installations, ISO 12215 GES is now approved.

Some vessels do not have to be surveyed. Depending on the type of vessel, you may need to apply for approval to operate.

An unexpected wind-shift during parasailing operations caused 2 airborne passengers to contact the water at speed. They were recovered by the vessel and returned to shore. Both passengers later informed the operator that they had sustained injuries during the event. The owner then failed to report this as a marine incident to us.

Poorly secured containers can put lives at risk, damage the environment and cost millions. Find out how safe stowage practices keep cargo on board and help protect lives, livelihoods and the industry.

The purpose of this notice is to remind vessel owners, operators and masters of:

Our 24/7 centre responds to search and rescue (SAR) incidents throughout Australia.

On the evening of 2 April 2022, a Sydney Harbour ferry was operating a regular route between Manly and Circular Quay. A group of young males were exhibiting risk taking behaviour on the deck during adverse weather conditions. One of the group jumped, stumbled, and fell overboard without a lifejacket. The master came about and followed the ferry track back at dead slow to find the person overboard (POB). The POB had the presence of mind to use his mobile phone torch light in the dark to alert the master of his presence and was rescued.

In this edition, learn more about careers at AMSA and maintenance plan essentials.

Australia implements a range of standards and regulations to protect the marine environment from pollution.

AMSA surveyors will be using the checklist below when inspecting ships as part of our planned maintenance focused inspection campaign.

January - March 2026There were 335 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in Quarter 1 of 2026. Of these, 44 were serious and 1 very serious.

Overview of the international and domestic legislation and standards that apply in Australia.

Find out how you obtain your unique vessel identifier and how to display it correctly.

The following vessels are our declared off-shore industry vessels and trading vessels that work in inland and near coastal waters.

Highlights the importance of maintaining rescue boats in good working order ready for immediate use

The North-East Shipping Management Plan (NE SMP) identifies actions based on information regarding the nature of shipping activity in the north-east region.

Read a summary of results from the consultation on Marine Order 28 (Operations standards and procedures) and download a copy of the full report.

Australia Bay Seafoods General Manager and career fisherman Michael O’Brien, talks to AMSA about how the tragic loss of life with the capsizing of FV Dianne and FV Cassandra prompted them to reinforce their approach to safety.