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 Investigation Unit (MIU), which forms part of the Surface Safety branch of the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) assists in preserving and improving the safety of marine transport.
The role of the Marine Investigations Unit
The MIU conducts investigations to determine and report on the circumstances and causes of marine incidents. This is to promote industry awareness both within Australia and internationally of such causes with the aim of preventing a similar occurrence in the future.
In establishing the causal factors of a particular incident, it is not the function of the MIU to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability. Results of an investigation are not binding on the parties in respect of any legal, disciplinary or other proceedings.
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).
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