The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has taken swift action to protect seafarer welfare by detaining a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier and banning it from Australian ports for six months after nonpayment of crew wages.
AMSA received earlier this week a complaint that seafarers onboard the bulk carrier had not been paid for two months, prompting an investigation by the authority when the vessel was docked in Newcastle, Australia.
The investigation then conducted by AMSA, found that eight crew members were owed US$46,334 in unpaid wages.
AMSA also detected several other issues during the inspection and identified 18 deficiencies, including 4 detainable deficiencies.
When the deficiencies had been rectified, the vessel was directed to not enter Australian waters until 4 September 2026.
Under the Maritime Labour Convention, vessel owners must meet minimum standards for living and working conditions for seafarers, including the timely payment of wages, safe accommodation, adequate rest and access to support.
Greg Witherall, AMSA acting executive director operations, said the enforcement action reinforces AMSA’s commitment to ensuring seafarers are treated fairly and have access to their rights under the Maritime Labour Convention.
“Seafarers keep global trade moving, and they have a right to be paid for their work in line with the Maritime Labor Convention and to be treated with respect. AMSA will always act decisively when seafarer welfare is confirmed at risk.”
