About Us
History
Since the development of the USL Code in 1979, the domestic commercial vessel industry has been regulated by each state in Australia. This fragmentation of a very portable industry caused significant impairments to its consistency and promotion of growth and development.
After much deliberation, on the 1st of July 2013, the National Law was enacted for the administration of regulations for the domestic commercial vessel industry and subsequently, on the 1st of July 2018 the administration of these regulations became the responsibility of Australia’s Flag State regulator, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
These changes have the domestic industry come under an existing regulatory body which has seen a ‘merging’ of two regulatory frameworks. This oversight is now bringing together the regulations, standards and physical administration of our industry and has promoted a need for support from across the industry to bring it together.
At a meeting held at the Colmslie Hotel in suburban Brisbane in November 2019, it was unanimously decided that an association be formed, and through a global pandemic, the Australian Commercial Vessel Operators Association, or ACVOA for short, has been formed.
Management Committee
Chris Peters
President
CEO and Director – Pacific Tug Group
“Australian Commercial Vessel Operators are under represented with regulators, policy makers and governments. The challenges of supporting a marine business, takes precedent over steering the future of the industry. ACVOA is there to support, represent and advocate for both DCV and RAV owners, operators and associates, who navigate the Australian commercial maritime industry.”
Ryan Norval
Secretary
Principal at Maritime Lawyers
“In an ever-changing world, ACVOA is important to give the domestic maritime industry a voice with politicians and public sector decision-makers.”
David Fethers
Treasurer
CEO – Engage Marine and Westug
“ACVOA is a ‘no jeopardy’ forum for industry participants of all sizes to interact, share, learn and ultimately improve the safety outcomes and service delivery of the entire commercial vessel sector.”
Terry Dodd
Committee
Managing Director and Owner – Pacific Marine Group
Chris Briggs
Committee
General Manager, Marine – Kelsian Group Ltd
Mark Malone
Commitee
“The operators of domestic commercial vessels are a vital part of the maritime, freight and port sectors of the Australian economy. ACVOA was created to bring together the common interests of these operators and give our industry a voice.”
Get Involved
From professional development sessions to industry forums, ACVOA events are where Australia's commercial vessel sector comes together. Stay informed on regulatory developments, connect with peers, and have your voice heard.