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Consultation MO28: Proposed changes relating to the operation of RAVs and foreign vessels

We are seeking feedback on proposed changes to Marine Order 28 — Operations standards and procedures — 2015 (MO28).

About MO28

MO28 ensures the safe navigation and operation of regulated Australian vessels (RAVs) and foreign vessels, by implementing key provisions of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).  

Have your say

What it gives effect to

STCW Convention:

  • Regulation I/14: Responsibilities of companies
  • Regulation VIII/1: Fitness for duty
  • Regulation VIII/2: Watchkeeping arrangements

STCW Code:  

  • Section A–I/14: Responsibilities of companies
  • Section A–VIII/1: Fitness for duty,  
  • Section A–VIII/2: Watchkeeping arrangements and principles to be observed
  • Section B–I/14: Guidance regarding responsibilities of companies and recommended responsibilities of masters and crew members
  • Section B–VIII/2: Guidance regarding watchkeeping arrangements and principles to be observed

SOLAS:  

  • Chapter V, Regulation 14, addressing minimum manning and the working language of vessels

Key dates

  • 21 October 2024 - Consultation opens  
  • 2 December 2024 - Consultation closes
  • 1 September 2025 - Revised MO28 comes into effect  

Who the changes apply to

  • Seafarers working on RAVs
  • Owners and operators of RAVs
  • Foreign vessels

What changes are we seeking feedback on?

The key proposed changes include:

  • introduction of a new section, incorporating an alcohol provision to reflect the 2010 Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code
  • clarification and improved expression of STCW and SOLAS provisions throughout the marine order
  • application of contemporary drafting practices.

Changes and draft order

Have your say

We welcome your feedback on proposed changes to MO28.

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.

Please submit your feedback by 2 December 2024.

Your details

If you want your submission to be treated as confidential, tick the box at the end of this form.
e.g. fishing vessel, cargo vessel

Your submission

Proposed changes

Read the proposed changes (PDF 245 KB) 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, marine surveyor
i.e. Vessel Traffic Service provider, safety equipment supplier, maintenance provider
I have read and understood the Privacy Statement
Please treat my submission as confidential (By checking this box, you are indicating that you do not wish AMSA to publish your submission as part of the consultation process. AMSA will only disclose your submission if required or authorised by law.)

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