The updated Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation – national law) 2024 (MO504) is now available.
The marine order contains several changes to SMS requirements. These changes take effect on 1 June 2025, allowing domestic commercial vessel owners and operators time to prepare for and implement the new requirements.
Key changes to SMS requirements
- simplifying SMS requirements for smaller, less complex vessels and operations
- clarifying and strengthening fatigue management
- enhancing the management of risks from drug and alcohol use
- ensuring that roles and responsibilities for the safe operation of the vessel are clear
- updating the assembly station requirements in the vessel’s emergency plan
- aligning procedures for onboard operations and emergency preparedness with risk
- addressing operational risks to vessel stability
- amending the certificate of operation renewal criteria to reduce administrative burden.
In addition to the key changes listed above, there will also be some minor administrative and editorial changes to improve the marine order.
What do I need to do now?
Subscribe to receive information, updates and ongoing guidance to help you implement the changes.
If you are an owner, operator, master or crew member of a domestic commercial vessel, take time to understand how these changes may apply to your vessel and operation.
View the updated Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation – national law) 2024.
How were the new SMS requirements developed?
We worked closely with industry to improve the safety outcomes and practicality of these requirements for domestic commercial vessels. This included:
- gathering initial feedback from across industry
- collaborating with an industry working group to develop and test the proposed options
- seeking feedback from industry through public consultation.
Read the Consultation feedback report.