Consultation MO16 and MO19: Proposed changes relating to international load lines and tonnage conventions

We want your feedback on proposed changes to Marine Order 16 (Load lines) 2014 (MO16) and Marine Order 19 (Tonnage measurements) 2014 (MO19).

Have your say

About MO16 and MO19

MO16 gives effect to the International Convention on Load Lines. Its purpose is to:

  • deal with certification of vessels for evidence of survey and compliance with the International Convention on Load Lines  
  • provide for the marking of vessels
  • define when a vessel is overloaded.

MO19 gives effect to the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships. It deals with vessel certification as proof of compliance.

Key dates

  • 18 February 2025 – Consultation opens  
  • 31 March 2025 – Consultation closes
  • June 2025 – Consultation feedback report
  • 1 July 2025 – Reissued marine orders come into effect  

Who the changes apply to

  • Seafarers working on regulated Australian vessels (RAVs)
  • Owners and operators of RAVs
  • Foreign vessels
  • Australian recreational vessels undergoing international voyages
  • domestic commercial vessels (as relevant)

What changes are we seeking feedback on? 

Key proposed changes include:

  • clarifying that if an Australian recreational vessel is a RAV and operates as a commercial yacht, it is subject to the International Convention on Load Lines and falls under the application of MO16
  • providing necessary power to AMSA or a recognised organisation (RO) to issue an International Tonnage Certificate to applicable Australian flagged recreational vessels  
  • providing an option for a domestic commercial vessel (DCV) owner to apply for an International Tonnage Certificate if they want to
  • making both marine orders up-to-date, consistent and easy to understand.

 Proposed changes and draft marine orders

Contact us if you need help accessing any of these documents.

Have your say

We welcome your feedback on proposed changes to Marine Order 16 and Marine Order 19.

You can submit feedback by:

  • making a submission using this online form
  • contacting AMSA Connect on 1800 627 484 - a Customer Service Officer will take your feedback verbally over the phone
  • sending an email to consultation@amsa.gov.au.
Last updated: 18 February 2025

Please submit your feedback by midnight on 31 March 2025.

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Your submission

Proposed changes

Read the summary of changes for Marine Order 16 and Marine Order 19 and let us know your comments.

Please choose the stakeholder category that best reflects your role in the maritime industry. You can choose more than one category:
Seafarer: i.e. master, crew, skipper
i.e. shipping agent, naval architect, maritime surveyor
i.e. Vessel Traffic, Services providers, safety equipment supplier, maintenance provider
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