Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW)-qualified seafarers and coastal pilots will have greater choice and easier access to medical examinations, with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) expanding its network of AMSA-approved medical providers and inspectors.
This week, AMSA onboarded Complete Corporate Health as a new national AMSA-approved medical provider, with additional providers set to join the network from August 2026.
The expansion does not change medical standards or requirements under Marine Order 76. Existing AMSA medical fitness certificates remain valid, with Sonic HealthPlus re-appointed as an AMSA-approved medical provider to support continuity of service.
AMSA Executive Director Operations, Greg Witherall, said the expansion of approved medical providers reflects AMSA’s ongoing commitment to improving access to essential services for seafarers, reducing barriers to certification while upholding the highest standards of maritime safety.
“Seafarers and coastal pilots are the backbone of Australia’s maritime industry and supply chains, and they deserve regulatory services that are accessible, responsive and designed to support them in maintaining the qualifications and certifications needed to work safely at sea,” Mr Witherall said.
“As a regulator, our role is safety first, but service always. Expanding the network of approved medical providers gives seafarers and coastal pilots more choice, flexibility and convenience when completing their medical certification requirements, while maintaining the highest medical standards.
"It will also make it easier for people entering the maritime industry to complete the medical requirements and begin their careers at sea."
The expanded network applies to STCW-qualified seafarers and coastal pilots who require an AMSA Certificate of Medical Fitness. It does not affect seafarers working on domestic commercial vessels with near coastal certificates of competency, who can continue to obtain form 1850 through a general practitioner.
AMSA will announce additional providers who have been added to the AMSA-approved network over the coming months. Seafarers and coastal pilots can visit the AMSA website to find an approved medical inspector based on their location and availability.