AMSA Wins Legal Case and Fines Ship Owner for Safety Violations

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has won a legal battle against Universal Shipping Alliance LTD, which was fined 63,000 AUD by the Gladstone Magistrate Court for failing to comply with a security arrangement. The case involved the Liberia-flagged bulk goods vessel, KMAX leader, which experienced ongoing engine problems while docked at the port of Gladstone in October 2023. Despite initial estimates indicating repairs would take 8-10 days, the issues persisted even after extensive work in November of the same year.

Due to concerns about the approaching cyclone season and the risks posed by a disabled ship near the Great Barrier Reef, AMSA issued a written order requiring a towing and rejecting plan. However, both the ship’s captain and their Australian agent failed to respond to repeated inquiries from AMSA. Executive Michael Drake emphasized the potential catastrophic consequences of not having a towing ship on hand during a cyclone event.

The vessel was eventually towed from Australian waters in February 2024 and subsequently received a six-month ban from Australian ports. Drake stressed AMSA’s unwavering commitment to safety regulations, stating that they will not compromise on the security of vessels, crew, or the environment. This incident highlights AMSA’s proactive approach in issuing 57 directions related to security violations, mechanical defects, and the welfare of maritime workers.

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