On this page:
- Latest changes
- Download exemption 03
- What this exemption allows you to do
- Eligibility requirements
- How to apply
Latest changes
An updated version of exemption 03 came into effect on 1 July 2025.
We reissued the previous version with minor policy and editorial changes to reflect the updated Marine Order 504 (Certificates of Operation - national law) 2024.
You do not need to apply to use this exemption.
Current exemption holders: Review the updated exemption to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria.
Note: A vessel operating under this exemption may also be eligible to operate with a simplified SMS.
All domestic commercial vessels (DCVs) are required to have a certificate of operation (CoO) unless exempt.
What this exemption allows you to do
Exemption 03 allows eligible vessels to:
- operate without a CoO, or
- operate with a CoO but without complying with a specific condition of a CoO.
Eligibility requirements
Scenario 1: Is my vessel eligible to operate without a CoO?
Disclaimer: This flowchart is a general indicator of eligibility for exemption 03. If you believe you may be eligible, read the full exemption PDF237.19 KB before deciding.
- Image description: Is my vessel eligible to operate without a CoO?
Class 1 passenger vessels are not eligible for exemption 03.
These vessels may be eligible to operate under exemption 03:
- tenders
- sailing vessels
- human-powered vessels
- dragon boats
- jet ski/personal watercraft
- bait-gathering vessels
- vessels used to teach recreational boating qualifications.
Your vessel may also be eligible to operate under exemption 03 if it meets all the following criteria:
- less than 7.5 m long
- Class 2 or 3 vessel
- operates in sheltered waters only (D or E)
- does not carry passengers.
Note: More eligibility criteria may apply. Read the exemption document to confirm.
Think you may be eligible? Read exemption 03: schedule 1 PDF237.19 KB to find out which conditions you need to comply with.
Note: If you're eligible to operate without a CoO, you still need a safety management system (SMS). You may be eligible for a simplified SMS.
Scenario 2: Am I eligible to operate my vessel without complying with all CoO conditions?
Certain kinds of vessels that are required to have a CoO may be exempt from a condition on the certificate in some situations. These include:
- heritage vessels that AMSA has been given a vessel management plan
- personal watercraft in service category 2C, 2D or 2E used in an aerial freestyle device operation.
See exemption 03 - schedule 2 for more details.
How to apply
You do not need to apply for approval to use this exemption.
If operating under this exemption, you just need to:
- comply with conditions in schedule 1 for scenario 1, or
- comply with conditions in schedule 2 for scenario 2.
Related legislation and standards
- Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation - national law)
- National Standard for Commercial Vessels
- Exemption 04 - Marine safety (Recreational use)
- Exemption 07 - Marine safety (Temporary operations)
Refer to superseded and repealed safety exemptions for previous versions of this exemption.