Media release

National Safe Boating Week 2021 Launches

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is pleased to have partnered with the Australian New Zealand Safe Education Boating Group (ANZSBEG) on this important initiative.  National Safe Boating Week takes place from the 2nd to the 8th of October and is an opportunity for governments, industry leaders, and casual and professional seafarers alike to highlight the importance of safe boating across Australia and New Zealand.  

Australia-Indonesia Search and Rescue exercise continues to build closer international relationships

A search and rescue exercise (SAREX) between Australia and Indonesia was held today to further strengthen relationships between the two nations and improve overall transport safety and assistance in Indonesia.

The annual SAREX, involving the Australian Maritime Safety Authority’s Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) as well as Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue body (BASARNAS) and the Kupang SAR Office (RSC), was held via video teleconference due to current COVID restrictions.

AMSA conducting marine environment low sulphur fuel oil study

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is conducting research throughout 2021 into how Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oils (VLSFOs) behave if spilled into the Australian marine environment. 

The National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies sets out national arrangements, policies and principles for the management of maritime environmental emergencies. 

20 Indonesian Fishermen rescued off Western Australia

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has coordinated the safe rescue of 20 Indonesian fishermen aboard a semi-submerged 35 metre fishing vessel in distress, approximately 670 nautical miles west of Perth, Western Australian.

On 13 May, the Indonesia authorities notified the AMSA Response Centre that the vessel was in distress and required assistance. Early the next day, the Perth AMSA Challenger Jet conducted a sortie out to the vessel and dropped several life rafts. 

National Search and Rescue Awards open for nominations

The National Search and Rescue Council Australian Search and Rescue Awards are open for nominations.

The awards recognise outstanding contributions to search and rescue within the Australian region from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021. Anyone can nominate another person or team of people for one of the prestigious National awards. 

There are three categories for the awards. Professional, non-professional, and long-standing contribution to the community: Australian Search and Rescue Awards - National Search and Rescue Council (amsa.gov.au)