Defence regulates its maritime capabilities through the Defence Seaworthiness Program (the Program).
The Program provides Defence with a systematic means of achieving the seaworthiness outcome, which is the independent and justified confidence that:
- naval vessels are capable of responding to the requirements of Australian Government within the bounds of an approved operating and support intent
- risks to safety are managed appropriately and in compliance with Defence’s statutory obligations.
The Defence Seaworthiness Authority (Chief of Navy) appoints 3 entities to assure naval vessels are safe to operate, and operated safely.
- The Australian Naval Flag Administrator oversees the Defence Seaworthiness Program and controls the Defence jurisdiction by flagging vessels once they have demonstrated they meet the requirements of Australian naval classification and seaworthiness regulation. This includes setting the requirements for vessel registration, certification, and compliance under the Australian Naval Flag Framework.
- The Australian Naval Classification Authority administers the Australian Naval Classification Framework and Rules, which combine internationally recognised naval ship rules with Australian legislation to establish the requirements for the design, construction, and maintenance of naval vessels.
- The Australian Naval Seaworthiness Authority administers the Australian Naval Seaworthiness Framework and Regulations, which place obligations on operators of naval vessels to ensure they are, so far as reasonably practicable, safe and operated safely.
Seaworthiness Conference
The annual Seaworthiness Conference explores contemporary issues around seaworthiness management and emerging risks for Defence maritime. The conferences provides a forum to discuss future directions, share ideas, spark debate and build knowledge across the regulated community.
Details of past conferences can be accessed via these event pages: