Defence regulates its maritime capabilities through the Defence Seaworthiness Program which provides Defence with a systematic means of achieving the seaworthiness outcome.

The Defence Seaworthiness Authority (Chief of Navy) appoints 3 entities to assure naval vessels are safe to operate, and operated safely.

The Defence Seaworthiness Program Guidebook explains how these entities ensure Defence maritime capabilities are authorised, technically assured, and operationally regulated to achieve the seaworthiness outcome.

The Seaworthiness Program Guidebook (PDF, 12.7 MB)

Details

Last updated

1 October 2025

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Contacts

seaworthiness.correspondence​@defence.gov.au