The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has imposed a third ban in less than two months on a shipping company for underpaying its crew, violating the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). On April 23, AMSA inspected the Liberia-flagged bulk carrier, FPMC B Forever, operated by Formosa Plastics Marine Corporation, at the Port of Newcastle.
During the inspection, AMSA discovered that the crew had been underpaid by nearly A$15,000 and was improperly charged for potable water, an unlawful practice. Consequently, AMSA detained the vessel and issued a ban on Formosa Plastics Marine Corporation, preventing the ship from entering Australian ports or waters until October 4.
Greg Witherall, AMSA’s Acting Executive Director Operations, emphasized that underpaying seafarers is illegal and will prompt enforcement action. He warned operators that attempting to cut costs at the expense of crew welfare will result in far greater penalties than the wages withheld.
Those denied access to Australian waters could face significant financial losses, disrupted supply chains, and increased scrutiny in future inspections, underscoring the seriousness of compliance with maritime labor laws.
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