Safe Vessels

The Commercial Operations Branch is responsible for ensuring all commercial vessels (those used for any type of business, trade or commerce) comply with minimum safety standards for the design, construction, equipment, maintenance and operation of the vessel.  These standards are designed to protect persons, property and the environment.

If you wish to operate a vessel for commercial purposes in NSW, the vessel must meet certain requirements. These requirements are determined by the type of vessel and its intended operations. Please find below an outline of the key requirements:

Vessel Registration

Commercial vessels must be registered with NSW Maritime whenever they are on NSW navigable waters.

Vessel Standards

All commercial vessels are required to comply with certain safety standards depending on the type of vessel and area of operation.

Under the Commercial Vessels Act 1979 all commercial vessels operating in NSW are required to have either a Certificate of Survey issued by NSW Maritime; or operate in accordance with an Exemption Notice.

A Certificate of Survey indicates that the vessel has been inspected and found to comply with the standards set out in NSW maritime legislation, which primarily refer to the Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) Code.

Owners, operators and managers of vessels in fractional ownership, trusts, time share and club share should read the Boat-share Guidelines to determine whether their vessel(s) are subject to the requirements of the Commercial Vessels Act 1979. Vessels meeting the definition of 'boat-share' are considered recreational craft and are not subject to this Act.

Owners, operators and managers of vessels that do not meet the definition of 'boat-share' can either comply with the Act, or apply to NSW Maritime for  a temporary exemption.  Such an exemption would allow existing vessels to continue operating without being in survey and without a commercially qualified driver, subject to conditions including specific measures to mitigate risks associated with inboard petrol engines.  Exemptions can also be sought for new vessels, provided they are ordered by 31 December 2009.  Further information on exemptions for vessels under fractional ownership, club and related schemes can be obtained by calling NSW Maritime on 9563 8786.

Other Requirements