Marine transport accounts for all bulk imports and exports and
nearly three-quarters of the value of all imports and exports of
cargo into Australia, and plays a primary role in coastal trade. In
addition, a major offshore industry fleet supports oil and gas
exploration off the Australian coast. A safe and efficient marine
transport system is therefore an essential part of the Australian
economy. The work of the Marine Safety Investigation Team, which
forms part of the Surface Safety Investigations of the Australian
Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB™) assists in preserving and improving
the safety of marine transport.
The role of the Marine Safety Investigation Team
When the ATSB investigates a marine accident or incident,
investigators will seek to determine its circumstances, identify
any safety issues, and encourage relevant safety action. The aim of
all ATSB investigations is to prevent the occurrence of other
accidents and incidents, rather than to assign blame or liability.
This approach helps ensure the continued free flow of safety
information for the purposes of improving safety in the future.
The ATSB conducts 'no blame' marine safety investigations in
accordance with the Transport Safety
Investigation Act 2003 (TSI Act). The Bureau does not
investigate for the purpose of taking administrative, regulatory or
criminal action.
Marine safety investigations are carried out in conformity with
International Treaties and instruments, including Article 94(7) of
the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Safety of
Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) which includes the International
Casualty Investigation Code, and the Load Line Convention. Regard
is also had to International Maritime Organization (IMO)
Resolutions. These international instruments are recognised by the
TSI Act.
The power to prosecute ships' masters and others for breaches of
safety and anti-pollution legislation resides with the regulatory
and administrative body responsible for Australian marine safety,
the Australian Maritime Safety Authority
(AMSA).
---
