The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is proposing the issuing of digital seafarer certificates in mid to late 2027.
Currently, certificates of competency are required to have a photograph and signature under Marine Order 70, and a photograph under MO505.
The new digital certificates will not have a photograph or signature.
AMSA is proposing minor amendments to these Marine Orders to facilitate this change, with no changes or actions required from certificate holders.
Key proposed changes are:
- Removing photograph and signature requirements for digital certificates issued under Marine Order 70.
- Removing prescriptive certificate format requirements from Marine Order 505.
- Correcting outdated or incorrect references.
- Making other minor editorial changes.
The changes will not affect seafarer qualification requirements or obligations.
AMSA will provide further updates in 2027 about the rollout of digital certificates, including information on what certificate holders can expect during the transition.
You can find out more information about the digital certificates and how they will work here.
Seafood Industry Australia and WAFIC will provide submissions to AMSA on the changes, so please share any thoughts on comments to:
Seafood Industry Australia – Julie Petty [email protected], or
WAFIC – Brett McCallum [email protected] by close of business 26 November 2026.