National safety review of domestic commercial vessels

The Australian Government has commissioned an independent review to consider whether Australia’s legal framework regulating the safety of domestic commercial vessels is fit for purpose.

This review is under the responsibility of the Department of Infrastructure and will also consider whether this regulatory framework is being delivered efficiently and effectively, and to consider options for future cost recovery arrangements.

The review will be conducted in two phases:

  • focus on the National Law framework (Phase 1)
  • consider national system delivery costs and future funding options (Phase 2).

The Review Panel has provided the attached document as an aid to assist you with making a submission in relation to Phase 1 of the review.

Industry members are encouraged to provide their views on the consultation questions in this document and any other relevant views you have on whether Australia’s legal framework regulating the safety of domestic commercial vessels is fit for purpose.

You can respond to the review in two ways:

  • The Panel will hold targeted consultation sessions during February and March 2022. WAFIC is seeking out the schedule for these consultations.

Following public consultation, a draft Phase 1 Interim Report will be released for public comment by the end of April 2022.

It is anticipated that a Phase 1 Interim Report will be developed by mid-June 2022.

Your comments would be appreciated by email by 20 March 2022 to assist WAFIC prepare an industry submission by the 30 March 2022 deadline.

You’ll find more information on the review process here.