Seafarer Medical Requirements in Australia
In Australia, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) regulates seafarer medical fitness. Certificates of medical fitness for international (STCW) certificates of competency can only be issued by AMSA approved medical inspectors.
This record has not yet been fully checked against the official source. Requirements change — always confirm with the maritime authority before your examination.
Applicable standards
For international (STCW) certificates, medical fitness is governed by Marine Order 76 (Health — medical fitness). Domestic commercial vessel seafarers are covered by separate AMSA standards for the medical examination of domestic seafarers.
Examination information
According to AMSA, first-time STCW applicants must be examined in Australia; overseas assessments are accepted only for revalidation or upgrades that meet AMSA standards.
Approved / authorized medical examiners
Only AMSA approved medical inspectors can issue the certificate of medical fitness for STCW certificates. Inspectors often work with provider clinics that handle bookings. AMSA publishes a "Find an AMSA approved medical inspector" search.
Medical certificate
According to AMSA, the certificate is valid for up to 24 months for most seafarers, and up to 12 months for seafarers under 18 or aged 55 and over. It may set out limits on the work you can perform.
Vision
Eyesight and colour-vision standards are set out in AMSA requirements consistent with STCW Section A-I/9.
Hearing
Hearing standards are set out in AMSA requirements.
Renewal
Book with an approved medical inspector before expiry. Note the shorter validity for seafarers aged 55 and over.
Sources
- Australian Maritime Safety Authority — Medical fitness for international certificates of competency (opens in a new tab)
- Australian Maritime Safety Authority — Standards for the medical examination of domestic seafarers (January 2023) (opens in a new tab) (January 1, 2023)
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