Australia’s updated Marine Orders 16 (Load Lines) and 19 (Tonnage Measurements) will come into effect on 1 September 2025.
These revisions ensure alignment with international maritime standards, enhancing safety, regulatory clarity, and operational effectiveness for vessels operating in Australian waters. The changes apply to owners and operators of recreational Australian vessels (RAVs), domestic commercial vessels (DCVs), and foreign vessels in Australian waters.
Key Provisions of MO16 and MO19
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Marine Order 16 (Load Lines): Implements the International Convention on Load Lines, covering vessel certification, load line markings, and criteria for determining vessel overloading.
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Marine Order 19 (Tonnage Measurements): Implements the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, focusing on certification and proof of compliance for vessels.
Important Updates in the 2025 Marine Orders
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Commercial Yachts: Clarifies that an Australian recreational vessel operating commercially as a yacht (RAV) is subject to MO16 and the Load Lines Convention.
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International Tonnage Certificates: Empowers AMSA or a Recognised Organisation (RO) to issue International Tonnage Certificates to eligible Australian-flagged recreational vessels.
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Domestic Commercial Vessels: DCV owners can now apply for an International Tonnage Certificate.
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Improved Clarity: Updates simplify language, correct inconsistencies, and align the marine orders with contemporary regulations for easier understanding and application.
The 2025 updates to MO16 and MO19 provide a modernized framework for vessel safety, certification, and tonnage measurement in Australia. By clarifying requirements for commercial yachts, domestic vessels, and recreational vessels, the revisions ensure compliance with international conventions while streamlining regulatory processes for all stakeholders operating in Australian waters.
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Source: Australian Maritime Safety Authority
