MO504 – Vessel Safety Requirements Phase 2 consultation

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has commenced a public consultation process on the proposed Phase 2 changes to the Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation and operation requirements-2018).

The consultation commenced on 28 May 2024 and remains open for eight weeks until midnight on Sunday 28 July 2024.

The commercial fishing industry has been actively working with AMSA on MO504 through its joint working group since 2022 and completed final considerations of Phase 2 of the review in February 2024.

AMSA has now been liaising with legislative drafters to develop the external consultation draft.

The purpose of Phase 2 of the review is to ensure:

  • That safety management system (SMS) requirements continue to improve safety outcomes for domestic commercial vessels,
  • They are easy to understand and fit for purpose, and;
  • They are practical for the diverse range of vessels within the fleet.

The key proposed amendments include:

  1. simplifying SMS requirements for smaller (<7.5m), less complex vessels and operations
  2. strengthening fatigue management requirements
  3. enhancing management of risks from drug and alcohol use
  4. ensuring that roles and responsibilities for the safe operation of the vessel are clear
  5. updating the emergency assembly station requirements to be more practical
  6. aligning procedures for onboard operations and emergency preparedness with risk
  7. addressing risks to vessel stability
  8. amending the certificate of operation renewal criteria to reduce administrative burden.

In addition to these proposed amendments, AMSA is inviting industry views on a proposal to expand the existing requirement for 10 hours rest in each 24-hour period to all masters and crew working on DCVs.

Next steps 

You can find more information on the proposed Phase 2 changes to MO504 and view the draft marine order here.

You can provide feedback on the proposed changes by:

  • completing the online form via the link above on the AMSA website
  • emailing [email protected]
  • calling AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484.

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