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
“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.”
Chris Peters
President
CEO Pacific Tug Group
Chris Briggs
Vice President
General Manager, Marine – Kelsian Group Lt
Joshua Ahearn
Treasurer
“ACVOA is vital industry leader supporting maritime supply chains across the country and connecting Australian trade”.
Ryan Norval
Secretary
Principal - Pacific 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.”
Mark Malone
Committee
CEO - Engage Marine and Westug
“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.”
Terry Dodd
Committee
Managing Director and Owner - Pacific Marine Group
“ACVOA gives key maritime entities across Australia a collective voice in engaging with government on issues that matter to the industry. Strong risk management and compliance are essential to a viable and resilient maritime sector, but regulation also needs to be practical and proportionate, supporting compliant operators rather than creating unnecessary barriers to efficient trade.”
Iain Sharples
Committee
Head of Underwriting Marine - SALT Marine Risks Australia
“As the maritime industry evolves, commercial vessel operators need a unified voice to help shape sensible, practical regulation that supports safe operations and sustainable businesses. ACVOA brings together the experience of those who operate, maintain and support our vessels, ensuring their perspectives inform decisions affecting the industry’s future."
Darren Carey
Committee
General Manager – Adec Kedge
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.