AMSA will be closed from 5 pm AEDT Tuesday 24 December 2024, re-opening on Thursday 2 January 2025. Our search and rescue will continue to operate every day (24/7) during this time. See which services are affected.

Search and rescue

Our 24/7 high tech search and rescue capabilities allow us to respond quickly to people in distress across our region. We use advanced response and satellite technology, contracted equipment, an emergency towage vessel, and four jet aircraft to respond to calls for help.

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Preparing for a trip

Whether you are taking to the skies, heading out on the water, or off the beaten track, it is always important to be prepared.

  • Be prepared before your trip. Stay safe at sea, on land or in the air.
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  • Be prepared before your trip. Stay safe at sea.
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  • Be prepared before your trip. Stay safe on land.
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  • Be prepared before your trip. Stay safe in the air.
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Search and rescue in Australia

We provide a search and rescue service in Australia. We respond to incidents in the air, on land, and at sea.

Our search and rescue equipment

Our search and rescue equipment includes four jet aircraft and an emergency towage vessel. We also have equipment for hire and supporting technologies to keep you safe.

International and regional search and rescue

We work with regional and international agencies and governments to constantly improve our search and rescue capabilities, and conduct search and rescue operations in nearby regions, and internationally.

Past search and rescue incidents

Major search and rescue operations conducted throughout Australia in past years.