To support wage compliance on foreign-flagged vessels operating in Australian waters, we have an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO).
This updated MoU strengthens the partnership between AMSA and the FWO, enabling a coordinated approach to addressing wage theft and ensuring better protections for seafarers.
The MoU reflects our collaboration with the FWO as part of the Maritime Strategic Fleet Program, which focuses on increasing compliance with the Seagoing Industry Award 2020 – Schedule A. This includes:
- conducting joint ship visits to gather evidence and monitor compliance
- developing training materials to support ongoing compliance activities
- establishing direct collaboration and communication between AMSA and FWO regional offices.
The MoU was signed on 13 December 2024 and underpins monthly progress meetings to monitor the program's implementation and effectiveness.
This is another great example of cross-agency cooperation to improve outcomes for workers in the maritime industry.
Last updated: 5 February 2025