Australia’s maritime safety authority announced a new proposal to update the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) Part C4 — a key framework that governs fire safety onboard domestic commercial vessels. Authorities confirmed that the consultation period opened on 24 November 2025, marking the start of a structured review that will run until 6 February 2026.
These updates aim to reflect emerging technologies, new fire-risk profiles, and operational realities in today’s commercial fleet. The proposed standard outlines several technical adjustments that reshape how operators approach maritime safety, fire-risk management, and compliance frameworks within the domestic sector.
Key Areas Under Review
New Requirements for Lithium-Ion Battery Installations
Regulators plan to introduce a full chapter addressing electrical energy storage systems. The new section outlines fire-safety measures for lithium-ion battery installations and establishes clearer rules for spaces that store or operate these systems.
Updated Categorisation for Machinery Spaces
A new “medium machinery space” category will be added. This classification applies to spaces over 10 m³ that do not meet the thresholds of a full machinery space.
The draft also defines fire-risk levels for spaces containing portable equipment powered by lithium-ion batteries or petrol engines.
Smoke Alarms and Fire Extinguishing Equipment
The proposal calls for interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in accommodation areas, stairways, corridors, and escape routes on certain vessel types.
It also identifies acceptable alternatives to traditional 30B foam and 12-kg dry-powder extinguishers.
Fire-Resisting Divisions and Materials
Authorities outlined updated definitions and structural requirements, including termination heights above the keel and fuel-tank boundary rules in high-risk zones.
Revised fire-performance benchmarks are also listed for deck finishes, linings, ceilings, and doors.
Clarification for Wood-Fire Heaters
The draft provides clearer treatment for wood-fire heater installations to ensure consistent application across the fleet.
Dangerous Goods Provisions
The proposal removes outdated references and clarifies rules for carrying fuel for tenders and vessel-specific operations.
Administrative Corrections
Editorial updates will ensure that outdated references are eliminated so the standard remains current and aligned with existing regulations.
Timeline for the Updated Standard
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24 November 2025 — Consultation opens
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6 February 2026 — Consultation closes
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1 February 2027 — Feedback report published
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30 June 2027 — New standard published
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30 June 2029 — New standard comes into effect
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Source: Australian Maritime Safety Authority
