The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is continuously intensifying its enforcement of international maritime regulations to strengthen the protection of seafarers’ rights. As one of the regulatory measures frequently used in recent years, AMSA has once again issued a “banning order” against a vessel violating the Maritime Labour Convention. This is the third vessel banned from entering Australian waters in less than two months due to issues such as crew wage arrears and illegal fees.
The latest case involves the 180,100 deadweight tonnage bulk carrier “FPMC B Forever,” flying the flag of Liberia and operated by Formosa Plastics Marine Corporation (FPMC). AMSA announced that the vessel is banned from entering Australian ports and waters effective immediately, with the ban lasting until October 4.
This incident stems from a Port State Control (PSC) inspection conducted by AMSA on the vessel at the Port of Newcastle on April 23. After the inspection, the regulatory authority not only detained the vessel but also swiftly initiated the banning measures.
AMSA inspectors pointed out that the crew of the vessel were owed a total of nearly 15,000 Australian dollars (approximately 10,900 US dollars) in wages. Additionally, crew members were required to pay for drinking water, a practice deemed to violate the requirements of the Maritime Labour Convention. AMSA has long been known for its strict enforcement of international maritime regulations, particularly its tough stance on protecting seafarers’ rights and marine environmental safety.
Greg Witherall, Acting Executive Director of Operations at AMSA, stated that any form of wage deduction for seafarers is illegal and will trigger regulatory enforcement procedures.
He emphasized: “This action sends a clear signal to all operators who attempt to cut costs at the expense of crew welfare. The law is very clear: once seafarers’ wages are in arrears, the ultimate cost will far exceed the savings originally sought.”
AMSA once again warns shipowners and operators that they must strictly fulfill their obligations under international regulations, or they will face the risk of being banned from entering Australian ports. According to the Maritime Labour Convention, shipowners must ensure timely payment of seafarers’ wages and provide crew with a safe living environment, adequate rest time, necessary support services, and crew change arrangements.
