yacht register australia

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How To Register Your Boat – Australian Citizens

The process of registering your new or pre-owned vessel can vary a lot depending on where you live (country and state), where the vessel is located, and where you intend to take it.

Please keep in mind this information is general in nature and may not be relevant to your specific situation.

WHERE TO START

• If you’re buying a boat in Australia and plan to use your boat in Australian waters only – go to the state registration section below.
• If you’re buying your boat in Australia and your area of navigation is cruising offshore – go to the AMSA section below.
• If you’re purchasing your boat overseas – go the the AMSA section below.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

• Register your vessel on The Australian General Shipping Register through AMSA (if you are collecting your boat from overseas or taking your boat overseas).
• Apply for an MMSI through AMSA (you will require a Radio Proficiency Certificate to obtain this, details provided below) .
• Register your vessel with your State Government Authority (if you will be collecting your boat in Australia or collecting your boat overseas and bringing it back to Australia, and then keeping it in Australia).
• Research the importation process and what taxes will be payable  (if you are buying a boat overseas and bringing it back to Australia)
• Obtain insurance quotes .

1: AMSA & The Australian General Shipping Register

AMSA stands for Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

A vessel on the high seas is, under international law, required to have a nationality. Registering your vessel on the Australian general shipping register gives it Australian protection on the high seas and in foreign ports.

If you intend to take an Australian-owned vessel overseas, then it must be Australian registered. It is an offence for an Australian-owned vessel to sail to a foreign port unless it is registered on the Australian general shipping register.

If you purchase a vessel overseas, it is required to be registered before you sail it into Australian waters. If the vessel is being delivered from overseas to Australia, as cargo, then there is no requirement for it to be registered.

If you collect your vessel in Australia and do not intend to take it overseas, you are not required to obtain an AMSA registration.

For more info about AMSA, visit the AMSA website

If you are buying a new or pre-owned vessel you will not be able to complete your AMSA registration until you receive a Builder’s Certificate and Bill Of Sale from the manufacturer or the seller, these documents will not be supplied until you have paid in full for the vessel and the build has been completed.

It is much easier to undertake the registration process in Australia, so it is advisable to have the registration process progressed as far as possible prior to handover. Making an application for registration in advance will also secure the name of the vessel.

To commence the registration process, the following documents need to be lodged with the Shipping Registration Office:

• Application for Registration
• Declaration of Ownership and Nationality  
• Notice of Appointment of Registered Agent

When available the Builder’s Certificate should also be provided. Once this has been received the Marking Note can be issued, with instructions for the marking of the vessel. When markings have been completed the original marking note must be sent to the Shipping Registration Office.

The registration can be finalised when the original Marking Note and an original or a certified copy of the Bill of Sale have been received following the handover of the vessel.

Builders Certificates / Statutory Declarations If you are buying a pre-owned vessel, you will require the Orignal Builders Certificate in order to obtain AMSA registration, however, if you are unable to provide an original Builders Certificate, a Statutory Declaration can be provided in its place.

Click here for more details about providing a Statutory Declaration in place of a Builders Certificate

Deletion Certificate (De-Flag Certificate) If you are buying a pre-owned vessel, you will need to supply AMSA with an original Deletion Certificate (sometimes called a De-Flag Certificate) proving the vessel has been deregistered by the previous owner, be aware that depending on which country the vessel has come from, this process can take some time and cannot be actioned by the seller until the sale has been completed.

Please note:

• The vessel name registered with AMSA is unique to your vessel, therefore by starting the AMSA registration application process, you can get a name locked away.
• Be aware that AMSA will only accept original documents which will have to be sent by mail (to their PO Box address) or courier (to their street address). This can be a lengthy process, especially if you are collecting your new boat and documents overseas.
• To avoid further delays, we recommend sending a copy of these documents to AMSA by email to get approval that everything on the documents is correct, before sending the originals by mail (to their PO Box address) or courier (to their street address). Always use an express service with tracking.

Click here to begin the AMSA Registration Process  Choose General Register under “Which register do you wish your ship to be registered on?”

The above page will provide you with a step-by-step guide to the AMSA registration process.

MMSI is a unique nine-digit number that is entered into certain marine radio communications equipment. When using this equipment to send a distress alert, or to indicate some other emergency, the number assists emergency services to identify you and/or your vessel.

You are required to apply for an MMSI if you have the following equipment:

• fixed very high frequency (VHF) radio with Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
• a handheld VHF DSC
• high frequency (HF) DSC
• automatic identification system (AIS)

Similar to a text message, DSC can be used to establish initial contact between vessels and stations. You are identified by your MMSI number and able to indicate the priority of your message, for instance, whether it is a distress, emergency, security or routine message.

If your equipment is connected to a GPS receiver, the message will also provide the vessel’s position and time at which the position was valid.

DSC equipment is a part of the global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS).

AIS is an automatic system used on ships and by vessel traffic services for identifying and locating vessels (class A or class B transceiver) and for the safety of navigation.

Proficiency Certificate: To be eligible for issue of an MMSI number you must have obtained an applicable proficiency certificate. Information about which certificates are accepted can be found here .

Please note : If you are buying a new boat, you will not be able to receive your MMSI Number until certain equipment has been installed on your vessel, as the MMSI application process requires the unique codes from these devices.

For more information about MMSI, visit the AMSA website

You can begin the MMSI Application online via the AMSA website.

• Set up an online account with AMSA here
• Once you’ve set up your online account with AMSA, you can apply for an MMSI here
• Once your account is set up, you can complete the process of registering your beacons and other equipment immediately (if you have their details available to you) or whenever you do obtain the details of these items.

Please note :

• If you are buying a new boat, you will not be able to complete the MMSI application until certain equipment has been installed on your vessel, as the MMSI application process requires the unique codes from some devices you have on your vessel. However, it is still a good idea to begin the application process to get the ball rolling.
• You will need to create an account with AMSA Online Services to begin the process.

Click here to create an AMSA Online Account

Click here to begin the MMSI Application process

3: STATE REGISTRATION

The process and requirements for registering a vessel can vary greatly by each Australian state and can change regularly and without notice.

Below you will find some general information about the steps involved and different requirements for each state.

Please Note:  Some states do not require you to obtain state registration if you have a current AMSA Registration, check with your local government office for details regarding your specific situation.

Please keep in mind that this information is general in nature and may not suit your specific situation.

State registration is the registration of your boat with a specific state government office instead of or in addition to registering your boat with The AMSA Australian General Shipping Register (international registration).

If you have an AMSA Registration and do not intend to bring your vessel back to Australia, then you are not required to obtain state registration.

All boats used for private recreational use and based in Queensland —including personal watercraft (PWC)—with an engine of 3kW or more must be registered in Queensland.

Submitting Your Application

To complete the registration form you will require the following:

• Current drivers’ licence
• Evidence of the boat’s origin – the Bill of Sale is preferred
• The HIN (Hull Identification Number) or SIN (Serial Identification Number)
• Make & model information
• Shipbuilder
• Ship Seller
• Ship design information
• Hull construction
• Basic specifications of the vessel
• Engine numbers / engine manufacturer / serial numbers
• Your storage intentions for the vessel
• Previous registration details if applicable

Applications should be made in person, click here for a list of Queensland Government Office locations

– For vessels under 15m in length

Complete the Queensland regulated ship registration application form (F3525) .

– For Vessels over 15m in length, there are additional steps involved to meet Maritime & Environmental Standards

Applications for vessels over 15m are to be lodged with Maritime Standards. Use the same form as above (F3525) , however, to lodge the form, send it to [email protected]

This requirement allows Maritime Standards to identify and proactively manage larger vessels regarding their particular build features and proof of seaworthiness.

Displaying your Registration 

Once registered, you must display the registration in a way that it can be read 30m away in a contrasting colour to the hull of the boat.

The registration label must also be displayed on the outside of the boat.

Registering your Tender

You are exempt from registration if your tender is smaller than 6m, is used no more than 2 nautical miles from the parent ship and if you plan to transport people and provisions between the ship and the shore.

In this case, the tender must be marked: “tender to …………….”

Interstate and Overseas Registration in Queensland.

You may operate within Queensland with current interstate or international registration for 12 months or while your boat is undertaking an interstate voyage.

More Information

Click here to visit the Queensland Government Website

Required for all recreational vessels over 6m.

To complete the registration form, you will also require the following:

• Proof of your identity
• Proof of acquisition – Bill of Sale is preferred
• Boat Code certificate – this is provided by an authorized NSW Boat Code Agent, click here to view a list of agents.
• HIN (Hull Identification Number) – will be authorized within the Boat Code paperwork.
• Australian Builders Plate (ABP) if the vessel was built in Australia after 1 July 2006.

Applications are best made in person at a Roads and Maritime Services Centre, click here to find your nearest location .

Applications can also be posted to: Agency Business Centre Roads and Maritime Services PO Box 21 Parkes NSW 2870

Registration Labels

• Vessels are not required to display Registration Labels
• Power Boats – Registration Numbers are required to be displayed on both sides of the hull in figures of 150mm high.
• Sail Boats – Registration Numbers must display numbers on the transom.
• Numbers must be displayed in a contrasting colour to the hull.
• A Safety label (which indicates the maximum number of people allowed on the boat) must be displayed on powerboats and must be displayed for all on board to view.

Australian Builders Plate (ABP)

Power-driven boats including imported vessels must have an ABP affixed before they are registered for the first time. Displaying an ABP does not exempt vessels from the Hull Identification Number (HIN) requirement.

There are two types of ABP, one for vessels under six metres and one for vessels over six metres. The plate must be permanently affixed in a position where it is clearly visible.

An ABP enhances the safety of passengers by providing key safety information that includes:

• Maximum weight and power rating of the engine
• Maximum number of people capacity
• Maximum load (weight) that the boat can carry (including people and equipment)
• Buoyancy statement (for boats up to six metres in length)
• Warning statements

For more information on Australian Builders Plates visit the Australia and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG) website .

Click here to visit the New South Wales Government Website

Click here to visit the ACT Government Website

What Requires Registration

All recreational watercraft requiring an engine for propulsion in Victorian waters must be registered and seaworthy.

Applications can only be made in ONE name

Paperwork required:

• The type, make and model of the vessel
• The date of manufacture
• The length, breadth and colour
• The construction material
• The number of hulls
• The HIN – Hull Identification Number, where fitted
• The number of engines and their serial number, type, make, horsepower and fuel type
• Any registration number previously assigned to the vessel
• Has an Australian Builders Plate been affixed to the vessel

Applications can be made in person at VicRoads Customer Service Centres: Click here to find your nearest service centre

You will need to:

• Provide evidence of your identity
• Submit your paperwork, including the Vessel (Boat & PWC) registration form [PDF 247 Kb]
• Pay the vessel registration fee

Or you can post your application:

by sending your Vessel (Boat & PWC) registration form [PDF 247 Kb] and the vessel registration fee to

VicRoads GPO Box 1644 Melbourne, VIC 3001

You will be given a registration certificate and label with the assigned vessel identification number.

• The registration label must be kept fixed in a clearly visible position on the outside or upper portion of the vessel.
• The vessel identification number must be displayed on each side of the hull of the vessel, forward of the beam, so that the highest part of each digit starts at a point no more than 75 millimetres (25 millimetres for personal watercraft) below the gunwale, and no less than 150 millimetres high

Click here to visit the Victorian Government Website 

What Needs to be Registered

• All boats fitted with an engine must be registered in South Australia. this includes all motorized and sailboats fitted with an engine.
• Interstate registration will be recognized for 90 days only and the Australia Registry of Ships does not satisfy this requirement.
• When a registered motorboat is sold, the new owner is required to apply for the transfer or re-register within 14 days.

Paperwork Required

To register a boat in SA for the first time, or to register a boat in SA in your name for the first time, you will need:

• Evidence of your identity Boat Code Hull Identification plates
• Boat Code certificate information,  click here to find a Boat Code Agent
• Proof of Ownership – Bill of Sale is preferred
• Hull information
• Basic boat statistics & inventory
• Engine information & serial numbers
• Gas and Electrical Compliance, click here for more info

The application can be made in person at a service centre, click here to find your nearest service centre

Or post the relevant paperwork & payment to:

Service SA GPO Box 1533 Adelaide SA 5001

Click here to view the South Australian Website

Click here to view the Data South Australia Website 

Owners of recreational vessels propelled by mechanical power, this includes electric motors and boats which are ordinarily propelled by sail, must be registered.

Boats currently registered in another state receive a three-month period of grace after first being used in Western Australia waters.

Vessels entering from the Northern Territory have 30 days. After this period of grace, the vessel must be registered with the Department of Transport.

Paperwork Required 

• New boat registration form
• Hull Identification Number (HIN) certificate
• Australian builder’s plate where required
• Proof of identity
• Vessel details such as name, colour, storage details
• Engine serial numbers

Submitting Your Registration

To register your new boat, submit your application in person at a DOT Driver and Vehicle Service (DVS) Centre, Regional Centre or at a Regional Authorised Agent. Click here to find your nearest Location

WA Registration Application Forms vary depending on whether the vessel is new, pre-owned, foreign etc., Click here to view the various documents

Click here to view the Western Australian Government Website

Vessels in the Northern Territory are not required to be registered.

Click here to visit the Northern Territory Government Website

Recreational boats with a motor of 4 hp or higher must be registered.

Required Paperwork and Information

• Bill of Sale
• Motor Boat Licence
• HIN Number – Hull identification Number
• Manufacturer / Length / Beam / Draft
• Navigation lights / EPIRB / EPIRB registration
• Engine numbers / engine manufacturer / serial number
• Radio Details & Safety equipment minimum requirements

Download and complete a  registration form,  also available from MAST (Marine & Safety Tasmania) or Service Tasmania.

A  registration fee  will apply

Marine & Safety Tasmania Office Level 1, Port Tower Building 18 Hunter Street, HOBART TAS 7000

Tenders not exceeding 4.5 metres and used within a distance of 0.5 nautical miles of the larger vessel need only carry the registration number of the larger vessel.

Displaying Your Registration Label

On successful application, MAST (Marine & Safety Tasmania) will issue a unique registration number.  Registration numbers must be 150 mm high and displayed on each side of the vessel.

A capacity label must also be displayed.

Click here to visit the Tasmania Government Website

4. IMPORTATION & TAXES

• If you are buying a new boat from Multihull Solutions and it is being delivered to you in Australia, your Sales Consultant will assist you with this process and the importation and taxes will be quoted to you as part of your purchase process.
• If you previously collected your new boat from the factory and are now looking to bring your boat back to Australia, you will need to consider importation and taxes.
• If you are buying a pre-owned boat overseas you should check if any taxes are payable on the boat before buying it, this information is usually clearly listed in the vessel information online.

Below are some handy links that can help you research:

Australian Border Force Website – Entering & Leaving Australia by Sea

Australian Border Force Website – How to Import a Yacht

Boating Industry Association – Thinking of Importing Your Next Boat Guide book

Things to consider:

• If you buy an Australian owned boat overseas, even if it has previously had GST paid on it, you will likely be required to pay GST again when you bring the boat back to Australia.
• We recommend engaging an Importation Agent, as the paperwork can be difficult and the cost is relatively low.
• You should consult your Tax Agent before committing to buying your vessel, this will ensure you are fully aware of what costs you may be liable for.
• Any advice provided by Multihull Solutions website, team or your Sales Consultant is for general information purposes only and should not be relied upon in any way. Seek professional advice.

5: INSURANCE

You should start the process of obtaining insurance quotes now so you have an idea of the costs involved, it will give you a chance to shop around, and in some cases, insurance may be required before you can complete your registration.

Multihull Solutions can assist with obligation-free insurance quotes from the world’s top marine insurance companies.

Click here to complete our online Insurance Quote Request Form

FAQ’s

If you’re buying a boat in Australia and plan to use your boat in Australian waters only, you will only require state registration.

If you’re buying your boat in Australia and your area of navigation is cruising offshore, you will require AMSA registration.

If you’re purchasing your boat overseas, you will require AMSA registration.

The AIS is a maritime communications device. It uses the very high frequency (VHF) radio broadcasting system to transfer data. AIS equipped vessels (shipborne AIS) and shore-based stations (non-shipborne AIS) can use it to send and receive identifying information. This identifying information can be displayed on an electronic chart, computer display, chart plotter or compatible navigation radar.

AIS improves navigation safety and environmental protection by assisting in the effective navigation of ships.

This identifying information can:

• aid in situational awareness.
• provide a means to assist in collision avoidance.

The AIS can handle over 2000 reports per minute and may update information as often as every two seconds.

AIS can be used as an aid to navigation by providing location and additional information on buoys and lights.

For more information about AIS, visit the AMSA website

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Boat Registration: How to Register Each State of Australia

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Boat registration is a crucial requirement for boat owners in Australia, and the process can vary depending on the state or territory in which you reside. To help you navigate the registration process effectively, this comprehensive guide provides information on registration requirements and procedures in each state of Australia.

Why is Boat registration essential in Australia?

Boat registration in Australia is required by law and contributes to safe marine operations. A unique registration number is provided to each registered boat, which aids authorities in identifying vessels and their owners. It also helps to avoid theft and supports search and rescue activities in times of emergency.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Boat Registration in Australia

1. Locate the Registration Authority Boat registration in Australia is handled differently depending on your state or territory. Determine the relevant authorities in your area in charge of boat registration. State marine agencies, transportation departments, and boating and fishing agencies are examples of familiar registration authorities.

2. Gather the Necessary Documentation You will generally require the following documents to register your yacht in Australia:

a) Evidence of Ownership If the boat was previously registered, provide proof of ownership, such as a purchase document, a bill of sale, or a previous registration certificate.

b) Hull Identification Number (HIN) If your boat was built after 1984 or was brought into Australia, it should carry a Hull Identification Number (HIN). Identifier (HIN). Check that you have the HIN for your boat.

b) Identity Proof To confirm your identity as the boat owner, present a legitimate form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

3. Fill out the Registration Form The registration application form can be obtained from the relevant registration authority. Please complete the form, including all necessary information about your boat’s make, model, measurements, and propulsion type. Include any pertinent information about yourself as the registered owner.

4. Pay the Application Fee Calculate the registration price based on the size, category, and length of registration for your boat. Fees may differ based on the registration authority and your area. Ascertain that you have the appropriate finances for the enrollment cost.

5. Show the registration stickers and numbers. You will receive registration numbers and stickers once your registration is authorized. Follow the instructions supplied by the registration authorities to apply the registration numbers to the boat’s hull on both sides. Display the registration stickers on your boat’s windscreen or hull in a prominent place.

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Boat Registration in Each State of Australia

Boat registration: new south wales (nsw).

• Registration Authority: Service NSW
• Required Documentation: Proof of ownership, HIN (Hull Identification Number), proof of identity
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from Service NSW
• Registration Fee: Calculated based on boat size and duration of registration
• Display of Registration Numbers and Stickers: Affix the registration numbers to both sides of the hull and display the registration stickers in a visible location.

Boat Registration: Victoria (VIC)

• Registration Authority: VicRoads
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from VicRoads

Boat Registration: Queensland (QLD)

• Registration Authority: Department of Transport and Main Roads
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from the Department of Transport and Main Roads

Boat Registration: South Australia (SA)

• Registration Authority: Service SA
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from Service SA

Boat Registration: Western Australia (WA)

• Registration Authority: Department of Transport
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from the Department of Transport

Boat Registration: Tasmania (TAS)

• Registration Authority: Department of State Growth
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from the Department of State Growth

Boat Registration: Northern Territory (NT)

• Registration Authority: Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR)
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from the Motor Vehicle Registry

Boat Registration: Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• Registration Authority: Access Canberra
• Registration Application: Complete the registration form available from Access Canberra

Boat owners must know each Australian state’s laws and processes governing boat registration. You can assure legal compliance and boating safety by adhering to the instructions given by the relevant registration authorities.

Don’t forget to gather the required paperwork, complete the registration application, pay the registration price, and display the stickers and registration numbers per the instructions. Enjoy safe sailing excursions in Australia by staying informed!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. how long does boat registration last in australia.

Boat registration periods vary among different states and territories in Australia. Typically, registrations are valid for a period of one to three years. Check with your local registration authority to determine the specific duration of registration in your location.

2. Can I transfer boat registration from one state to another in Australia?

Yes, you can transfer boat registration from one state to another in Australia. Contact the registration authority in your new state for specific procedures and requirements regarding the transfer of registration.

3. What is the duration of boat registration in each state?

The duration of boat registration varies among different states and territories in Australia. It can range from one to three years. Check with the registration authority in your state for the specific duration of registration.

4. Are there any exemptions for boat registration in Australia?

Exemptions from registration may exist for certain vessels, such as canoes, kayaks, sailboards, and small boats. Contact the registration authority in your state to determine if your ship qualifies for an exemption.

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Boat and vessel registrations

Information on applying for, renewing, restoring, replacing, changing, transferring, cancelling, or checking boat and vessel registrations.

Apply or reserve

• Apply for a vessel registration
• Reserve a personalised vessel registration number

Renew or restore

• Renew or restore a vessel registration
• Replace a vessel's registration certificate
• Change to a personalised vessel registration number
• Change a vessel's details
• Submit a notice of disposal for a vessel
• Transfer a vessel registration
• Transfer a vessel registration due to the death of the registered operator
• Cancel a vessel registration
• Check the PPSR before buying a boat
• Check a vessel registration

Boatcode and Hull Identification Number (HIN)

• Find a Boatcode Agent
• Apply for Boatcode Agency Accreditation
• Change the HIN details for a vessel

• 1300 329 622
• [email protected]

Boat & Yacht Registration

All boats and yachts must be registered for use in Australian waters. If you do not intend to take your boat or yacht 200 nautical miles from Australian shores, you only need to need to register with your local state, similar to registering a car. Please follow the below links for more details.

• NSW Transport Maritime
• Maritime Safety Queensland
• Transport Safety Victoria
• Department of Transport WA
• Government of South Australia
• Maritime and Safety Tasmania
• Northern Territory Transport Group

If you intend to sail your boat or yacht overseas or further 200 nauctical miles from Australian Shores, you are required to register with the Australian Shipping Registration Office.

Australian Shipping Registration Office

Postal Address Location

GPO Box 2181 82 Northbourne Avenue Canberra City ACT 2601 Braddon ACT 2612

Customer Assistance

Tel: + 61 2 6279 5925 Fax: + 61 2 6279 5922

8 Must-Do Steps Before Shipping Your Boat Successfully to Australia

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Hull Identification Number (HIN) and Boatcode

To get, maintain and transfer registration in NSW, you need to know the vessel’s unique HIN. Here's how to locate it, and why it matters.

What's an HIN (Boatcode)?

The Hull Identification Number (HIN) – also known as Boatcode – is a series of letters and numbers.

The HIN identifies things like country, manufacturer, serial number and date of manufacture.

The HIN is normally permanently attached to the vessel’s hull. See Where to find and display it below.

Always write down and keep a copy of your HIN in case you need it.

An HIN is useful because it:

• makes it easy to identify each vessel
• distinguishes one vessel from another
• deters vessel theft and helps in recovering stolen vessels.

Before you buy a second-hand vessel, you can search its HIN at Personal Property Security Register . This way you can check there's no money owing on it.

When you need to provide it

You’ll be asked to provide the HIN:

• on new vessels before initial registration
• on the transfer of registration if the vessel doesn’t have one attached already (for example, when a commercial vessel is being sold for recreational use)
• for second-hand vessels being registered for the first time .

Where to find and display it

The HIN is attached to the hull on most boats.

In newer boats it’s put there permanently during manufacture.

It may be engraved in a plate permanently attached on or near the right (upper starboard) side of the transom. This is so you can view it above the waterline.

In older boats, a Boatcode Agent (see below) can help you get an HIN. The agent can also get you an HIN Boatcode Certificate.

Get an HIN from a Boatcode Agent

Boatcode Agents in NSW can validate existing HINs and affix HINs to vessels. They can also provide you with an HIN Boatcode Certificate.

Find a Boatcoat Agent in NSW .

See Fees for current costs.

Exemptions from HIN requirements

• Any commercial vessel or a regulated Australian vessel.
• A vessel regulated under the Navigation Act 2012 of the Commonwealth.
• A vessel registered to a beneficiary of a will, or to the estate of the late owner or within a family following the death of the registered controller.
• An expired registration when there is no change of ownership and renewal fee is paid.
• White water rafts.
• Dumb barges and lighters where an engine is not attached.
• Hire and Drive vessels (except high powered and PWC).
• Vessels in chains (vehicular ferries).

Call 13 12 36 for details.

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Australia Boat Registration

Register your yacht under australia flag.

The Government of The Australia requires all boats and jet skis to be registered. The registration process is designed to assist private boat owners in obtaining their registration in an efficient manner. This includes providing the necessary information such as the vessel's name, length, and engine information, as well as proof of ownership.

Anyone who owns a boat and complies with the conditions established by the Australia registration department is eligible to register their vessel.

Boat registration helps in ensuring safety, security, and proper enforcement of marine regulations. The specific process and requirements for boat registration may vary depending on the type and size of the boat.

Australia Boat Registration Advantages

Australia boat registration offers several advantages:

Legal Proof of Ownership: Registration provides legal documentation of boat ownership, protecting against theft and disputes.

Compliance with Australian Regulations: Registered boats must adhere to Australian maritime regulations, ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.

National Recognition: Registered boats can fly the Australian flag, symbolizing compliance with Australian maritime laws and regulations.

Access to Australian Waters: Registered boats have access to Australia's vast and diverse waters, including coastlines, lakes, and rivers.

Financing Opportunities: Registered boats may be eligible for financing, allowing boat owners to secure loans for vessel purchases.

Insurance Eligibility: Many insurance companies offer coverage to registered boats, providing financial protection in case of accidents or damage.

Resale Value: Registered boats often have higher resale value due to their legal status and adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

Who can apply for the Australia boat registration?

Australia Boat Registration is typically open to both Australian citizens and non-Australian nationals, making it accessible to boat owners of all nationalities without specific citizenship or residency requirements.

What is the procedure to register a boat in Australia?

To register a boat in Australia, you typically need to follow these steps:

• Make an order online
• Pay the registration fee
• Provide us all the necessary documents:
• We will send you the documents to be signed

How long is the Australia boat registration valid for?

In Australia, boat registration for recreational purposes is typically valid for a period of 12 months. Boat owners are required to renew their registration annually to maintain their legal status for continued use on Australian waters. Commercial boat registrations may have different validity periods depending on the type of commercial operation and local regulations.

What documents are required to register the boat in Australia?

• Proof of Ownership: Original bill of sale, transfer of ownership, or notarized sales contract.
• Boat Specification: Detailed information about the boat's specifications and features.
• ID/Passport: Identification documents for the boat owner(s).
• Proof of Residence: Evidence of residence in Australia (if applicable).
• Previous Registration: Documents from the boat's previous registration (if applicable).
• Insurance Certificate: Proof of boat insurance coverage.
• Builder's Certificate: Certificate from the boat manufacturer (if applicable).

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Australian Register of Historic Vessels

The Australian Register of Historic Vessels (ARHV) is the definitive online repository for vessels with significance to Australia’s maritime history.

The Register features over 800 historic vessels, with background information on designers, builders and owners.

When you search the Register, you’ll also find their geographical location, aspects of their type or class, the eras their life has spanned, and stories which give further context to each vessel listed.

Some ARHV vessel entries feature historicised terms not used or accepted today. The Australian National Maritime Museum does not condone the use of historical language that may now be considered offensive.

Explore The Register

SY ENA is an Edwardian steam yacht built in Australia and one of only three that remain extant in the country.

From the Register

Lady Hopetoun

Silver Cloud

20 Sep 2019

4 surprising shipwrecks of Sydney Harbour

26 Sep 2018

Restoring Krait

10 Apr 2018

Catch the classics up close this weekend

19 Mar 2018

Grand times at Geelong

17 Jan 2018

Irene Pritchard, Sydney’s first female race skipper

11 Jan 2018

HMAS WYATT EARP

22 Dec 2017

SY Ena comes home to Sydney

04 Dec 2017

Australian Sailing

10 Aug 2017

1967: When Australia First Won The Admiral’s Cup (Part 2 of 2)

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Australia-Offshore is a leading provider of bespoke yacht and ship registration and management services in Australia.

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Where to register, yacht insurance, how long does it take to register a yacht, what are the costs.

• Who to contact?

Purchasing a yacht is a major acquisition which requires careful planning and with our assistance, our team can guide you through this process.

Australia-Offshore provides a variety of tailored structures for clients looking to purchase a yacht that will minimise or even eliminate the effect of VAT. We have immediate access to a large network of legal, tax, financial, insurance and wealth management specialists to help plan and maximise your investment.

Registration is one of the most important aspects of yacht ownership as the Registry provides proof of title, it offers the security of mortgages to the Banks and to a potential buyer, it confirms that the yacht is free from any encumbrances.

Many owners choose to fly the Red Ensign on their yachts due to its prestige, international recognition and consular protection. However, each flag state has different regulations in place thus offering different advantages or disadvantages depending on each circumstance. Australia-Offshore can help you identify a flag jurisdiction that best suits your requirements. We ensure that the correct procedures are followed and the right forms are submitted for registry.

There are an increasing number of jurisdictions available for yacht owners. Whilst the yacht registration process is very similar with common requirements to all of them, there are some individual aspects that should be taken into consideration before making a final choice.

• Initial and on-going registration costs.
• Eligibility for registration will depend generally on the age of the yacht and most importantly, the nationality of the individual or corporate owner.
• Crew nationality restrictions for commercial yachts
• Acceptability to finance entities
• Survey requirements

There are a number of other factors that need to be taken into account when assessing the most convenient jurisdiction to complete the registration of the vessel. These include the intended use of the yacht (e.g. whether it is to be commercially or privately operated), expected operating area of the yacht or owner’s nationality and domicile.

Generally we can assist with yacht registration in the following jurisdictions:

• Isle of Man
• Marshall Islands
• United Kingdom
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Clients considering yacht registration in other jurisdictions should contact Australia-Offshore as we would be happy to advise and assist you.

As a boat owner, you will naturally wish to protect your valuable asset against the possibility of loss or damage. Boat Insurance not only covers the cost of repairing damage to the hull and machinery, including engines, shafts and propellers if due to an accident, but also your potential legal liability to other third parties.

Australia-Offshore negotiate favourable premiums through its contacts with specialist brokers and underwriters whilst ensuring the maximum level of cover for clients and their yachts. Our partners specialise in insuring all types of vessels including sailing yachts, motor yachts, speedboats, RIB’s for private use or for charter. We use top quality insurers who will provide the best insurance cover wherever you travel with your boat at a highly competitive premium.

The policies we arrange typically cover:

• Loss or damage to vessel (hull and machinery), including theft or wrongful detention or seizure
• Dinghies, tenders, trailers and gear
• Personal watercraft
• Personal effects
• Passenger liability and third party liability
• Personal Accident, on request
• P&I and/or Crew Liability, on request
• Waterskiing cover, if for private purposes, on request
• Navigation Limits / Cruising range – UK, Europe, Mediterranean and Aegean waters plus other areas on request, including ocean voyages (Trans-Atlantic).
• Private use or charter

To protect your investment against the unforeseen and give you financial security and peace of mind, contact us to discuss your insurance needs.

Registration varies according to the ownership structure, the flag of registry, the type and location of the vessel and the type of registration required.

As an indication, pleasure vessels can normally be registered 3 working days and in 3 weeks for commercial yachts and ships.

Cost vary according to the type of vessel, ownership structure, flag of registry.

Examples of our fees are as follows:

Please note that all prices are subject to change and exclude registry fees and other external costs.

Who to Contact?

If you are interested in more information regarding the registration of your ship in Mauritius, please contact , Managing Director of Australia-Offshore.

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Renew boat registration

Boat registration labels not required from 1 September 2023. Visit service.sa.gov.au/boat-rego for more information.

Renew the registration of a recreational boat previously registered in South Australia.

Renew boat trailer registration

To renew your boat registration online, you'll need one of these:

• the 7-digit payment number - found on the registration renewal notice
• the boat registration number.

Boat registration renewal fees

Other ways to renew

Mysagov account.

If you have a mySAGOV account you can renew your boat registration within the account.

Log in or create an account

Phone Service SA on 1300 363 805 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. The operator will ask you for the boat registration number, name of the registered owner, and some boat details. This information is shown on the certificate of boat registration and on the renewal notice.

Go to a Service SA centre with your registration renewal notice and appropriate payment. If you didn't receive a renewal notice, Service SA can print one for you.

Send the completed application to the address printed on the front of the renewal notice or to: Service SA GPO Box 1533 Adelaide SA 5001

Cheques or money orders are to be made payable to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport.

What happens next

Once the registration has been paid, you can email a copy of your receipt to a nominated email address. Alternatively, your receipt will be provided and available to print which can be used to continue to operate the boat.

Visitors to South Australia

If your boat is registered in another state or territory, your interstate registration will be recognised for a period of 90 days, after which you'll need to apply for South Australian registration.

Listing on the Australian Register of Ships does not satisfy the registration requirement (this registration is for vessels travelling overseas).

Contact Service SA

Only send general enquiries online. Service SA will respond within 3 working days.

If the matter is urgent or is specifically about your current licence or registration, phone or visit a Service SA centre instead.

Enquire now

Call Service SA between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays:

• 13 10 84
• +61 8 8226 0206 (overseas callers).

Service SA centre locations and opening hours .

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Register a vessel on the Australian general shipping register

Registration of a vessel on the Australian general shipping register provides legally and internationally recognisable nationality to your ship. When registered, you will have access to Australian protection on the high seas and in foreign ports.

In addition to ship registration, a vessel may require certification in accordance with:

• the Navigation Act 2012 , for a regulated Australian vessel
• the Marine safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012 , for domestic commercial vessels.

An Australian-owned ship is required to be registered on the Australian general shipping register if it is one of the following:

• a commercial vessel, 24 metres or over in tonnage length, capable of navigating the high seas
• any vessel travelling overseas.

These vessels are exempt from the requirement to be registered (except if they are travelling overseas):

• pleasure craft
• fishing vessels
• government vessels.

These vessels are permitted to be registered and may be registered on the Australian general shipping register if the owner chooses to do so.

Read more about the definition of an Australian owned ship .

Australian registered recreational vessels may also require state registration. For more information, contact your local state marine safety agency. 

The Australian international shipping register is open to Australian owned or operated, international trading ships which meet specific criteria. Read more about which ships are eligible to register on the Australian international shipping register .

Recreational vessels 

If you intend sailing your recreational vessel overseas from:

• an Australian port to a foreign port
• a foreign port to a foreign port
• a foreign port to an Australian port

You must register your vessel on the Australian general shipping register before you leave. 

Recreational vessels on international voyages are also required to comply with certain marine orders.

Domestic commercial vessels

If you own a domestic commercial vessel over 24 metres tonnage length you must register it on the Australian general shipping register. Registration of a vessel on the Australian general shipping register does not automatically permit you to undertake commercial or recreational operations. You can contact AMSA if you have questions about certification requirements for commercial vessels.

How to register your vessel

Please contact the Shipping Registration Office by email for registration requirements for your vessel.

If your vessel has previously been registered on the Australian General Shipping Register, the registration process is slightly different to the process described below. Please include the official number for the vessel when you contact the Shipping Registration Office for information.

The following is required to register your vessel.

Show all / Hide all

Your ship is eligible if it fits one of these categories:

• It is Australian owned
• It is on demise charter to an Australian based operator
• It is less than 12 metres in length, owned or operated by an Australian resident.

You will need to send us the following:

• Application for registration
• Declaration of ownership and nationality
• Notice of appointment of registered agent
• Builder's certificate or 
• Statutory declaration for builder's certificate
• Bill of sale

Ownership history

• The deletion/closure document (for vessels that have been on a foreign registry)

Notice of appointment of registered agent form

This must be completed. By law, each vessel on the Australian general shipping register must have a registered agent. This is the person responsible for the day-to-day management of the vessel. The agent can be the owner.

Builder’s certificate

The builder of the vessel should complete the builder's certificate. If the builder can’t complete this (they may have gone out of business or you cannot contact them) then a person skilled at describing a ship can complete the statutory declaration for builder's certificate instead. You must give us a full description of the vessel.

The statutory declaration can be completed by you, a boat builder, surveyor, shipwright or any other individual skilled at describing a vessel.  

The statutory declaration must be witnessed by someone on the list of authorised witnesses and who has a connection to Australia.  Refer to the Attorney-General’s Department website for more information. 

If the vessel was built or first acquired in Australia, we need the ownership history from the build to the current owner(s). Specific advice can be provided by the SRO when the circumstances of a ship's acquisition are known.

If the owner, after taking all reasonable action, can’t get the evidence of ownership, we will accept a statutory declaration by the applicant that gives the history of the ownership of the ship.

If the history is unknown, provide both the following documents:

• A statutory declaration stating the extent of the applicant's interest in the vessel (i.e. number of shares owned) and the date on which they acquired that interest in the vessel.
• A notice of intention to register a ship . 

There may be other documents, certificates and forms you need to complete. If any of the documents listed below apply to you, make sure you include them in your application:

• Tonnage certificate —for commercial vessels 24 metres and over in tonnage length.
• Copy of a call sign licence (if you have been issued with one)
• Evidence of closure on the foreign register (if your vessel has been registered on one).

If another person is signing on behalf of the owner, you will need to provide:

• proof of power of attorney
• written authority to sign.

For vessels applying for a demise charter registration, you will need to provide:

• declaration by charterer
• demise charter party.

Application fees are payable when you lodge an application. These fees are non-refundable. Learn more about shipping registration fees and payment options .

Send your forms and supporting documentation to our postal or street address (for courier deliveries):

• Postal—Australian Maritime Safety Authority Shipping Registration Office, PO Box 255, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.
• Courier—Australian Maritime Safety Authority Shipping Registration Office, Level 2, 28 Gordon St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.

You must include payment with your application.

We will let you know if we need more information. If we have everything we need and your application has been completed correctly, we will send you a marking note with instructions on how to mark your vessel.

Once you have marked your vessel, the marking note issued by the SRO must be signed by the owner and witnessed. Return the original to the Shipping Registration Office along with any outstanding documents we have requested.

You have 6 months to complete the registration process. If you can’t complete your application within this time, you can apply for an extension. Fees apply for applications for extension of time.

On receipt of the signed marking note and any outstanding documentation, we will finalise the registration of your ship and send you the registration certificate. The original certificate must be kept aboard the vessel.

Related content

• Guide to registering your ship on the Australian General Shipping Register
• Guide to the registration of a ship on the Australian International Shipping Register
• Surveyor of domestic vessels
• Vessel owner and operator
• Commercial fisher
• Domestic seafarer or crew
• International crew
• Coastal pilot
• Not you? See more ...

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Yacht register, a list of measurement certificates issued by australian sailing..

Updated: 17 May 2024

When purchasing an Etchells you need to apply to the International Etchells Class Association (IECA) for a new measurement certificate. This is required to be shown and current when entering regattas. Note this function was performed by Australian Sailing in the past but is being centralised worldwide.

Apply: Etchells Class Hull Certificates

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Register a vessel

How to register or renew your registration for a recreational boat or personal water craft in WA.

You must register any recreational vessel that is or can be propelled by mechanical power, including sailing vessels, to use it in Western Australian waters. 

All recreational vessels in navigable waters, including those on moorings, in pens or berthed at jetties must be registered, regardless of how often they are used.

It is an offence to use or have a vessel in any navigable waters without a current registration.

Vessel registration lasts for 12 months and is required to be renewed annually - if you want to continue to use your vessel on the water.

Vessels exempted from registration

You do not need to register:

• sailing vessels that cannot carry a motor
• canoes, surf skis and other craft without motors
• with a motor not bigger than 5hp (3.73 kW)
• used only as a lifeboat and for ship to shore transport, and for no other purpose
• displaying the registration number of the parent vessel.

  How to register a new vessel

To register a new vessel, you will need to:

• Complete the New boat registration: Application to register a new boat form below.
• Submit your completed form by mail or in person at a DoT Driver and Vehicle Service (DVS) Centre, Regional Centre or at a Regional Authorised Agent .
• Hull Identification Number (HIN) certificate .
• Proof of identity .
• Proof of acquisition, such as a bill of sale, detailed receipt, consignment note, offer to purchase or statutory declaration providing evidence of ownership. 
•  You will also need to pay a registration fee as well as annual fees. You can pay your new vessel registration fee in person or over the phone.  

Multiple owners

If your vessel has more than one owner, you will also need to complete and submit the Additional boat owners: Additional purchasers/sellers form.

Pay your registration renewal online

Pay without a dotdirect account.

Don't have a DoTDirect online account?  If your registration has not expired, you can pay by credit card using our online payment facility. You must have your account number to use this option. 

Please contact 13 11 56 if you have misplaced or lost your account number.

Pay with DoTDirect

With DoTDirect, you can pay your annual boat registration renewal, view your boat details, and transfer vessel registration from one owner to the next. 

  Fees

Fees for recreational boat registration, foreign recreational vessel registration, boat registration numbers, and dealer trade plates are listed below.

Annual registration fees are determined by the vessel’s hull length, as described on the vessel's Boat Registration Certificate.  

Registration of private pleasure craft fees

Recreational vessel, boat registration number fees, registration of foreign recreational vessel fees, recreational vessel dealer trade plate fees.

You may be eligible for a refund of your boat registration fees if:

• You have made a duplicate renewal payment.
• You made a payment in error.

Please contact us on 13 11 56 to enquiry about our refund process.

Interstate and overseas vessels

Vessel registered interstate.

Vessels that are currently registered in another Australian state must be registered with the Department of Transport (DoT) within 3 months of first being used in Western Australia waters. 

Vessels entering from the Northern Territory have 30 days from first being used in Western Australia waters before they must be registered with DoT.

To register a vessel from another state or territory, follow the steps to register a new vessel.  

Vessel registered overseas

A foreign pleasure vessel is a registrable vessel which is owned by a person who is not a permanent resident of Western Australia and is temporarily within WA navigable waters. 

If a foreign pleasure vessel remains in WA navigable waters for greater than 30 days, it must be registered as a foreign pleasure vessel.

To register a foreign pleasure vessel, you will need to submit: 

• Foreign pleasure vessel registration form (below)
• copy of Proof of Identity documents 
• the date of entry of the vessel into navigable waters; and 
• the proposed date of departure of the vessel from navigable waters. 

You will also need to pay the appropriate fee. 

You can submit your application form by mail or email. 

Australian vessels travelling overseas

An Australian recreational vessel that is travelling overseas is also required to be registered on the Australian General Shipping Register.

  Vessel registration sticker and number

You will be sent a registration sticker after you pay your annual registration fee. 

The registration sticker is colour coded and contains the month and year of expiry.

You can pick up a replacement registration sticker at a DoT Driver and Vehicle Services Centre.  

How to display your registration number

Your registration sticker must be fixed to the port (left) side of the vessel, next to the registration number.

Each digit of the registration number must be:

• Black 
• Plain block font design
• Vertically positioned – not slanting. 
• Clearly visible

If the vessel hull is not white, each digit should have a minimum white surround of 7 millimetres.

Motor boats

• Position on both sides of the vessel where clearly visible.
• Each number and letter must be at least 150 mm tall and 25mm wide.

Personal water craft

• Position on both sides of hull or midship, clearly visible not under the flare of the bow.

Sailing vessels fitted for motors

• Position on both sides of the hull immediately forward of the transom
• Each number and letter must be at least 50 mm tall and 12mm wide.
• Must have parent vessel's number positioned on each side, forward of the transom.
• Each number and letter must be at least 50mm tall and 12mm wide.

Download the Safety guidelines: Vessel registration brochure below for more information. 

  Update your registration details

You must notify DoT within 15 days of any changes to your vessel registration details. 

You can update your registration details by:

• using your  DoTDirect  account, or
• submitting a Change of boat (registration) details or change of name and address form. 

You can submit the form by mail, email or at any DoT DVS centre, Regional Centre or Regional Authorised Agent .

Check your vessel registration

If you have a DoTDirect account, you can log in to check your vessel registration and expiry date. 

Your vessel’s registration sticker also shows the month and year your registration expires.

We are not able to provide vessel registration details to anyone who is not the registered owner of the vessel. 

By boat or by plane? If you’re seeking asylum in Australia, the outcome is similarly bleak

Associate Professor, Law School, La Trobe University

Disclosure statement

Savitri Taylor has received funding from the Australian Research Council in the past. She is a member of the Committee of Management of Refugee Legal and a member of the Kim for Canberra party. Views expressed in this article are her own and not attributable to any organisations with she is associated.

La Trobe University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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Last week, 39 foreign nationals arrived in a remote part of Western Australia by boat. This revived dormant debates about border security.

People without visas come to Australia by air and sea, though we only ever seem to hear about the latter. Unlike unauthorised air arrivals, unauthorised maritime arrivals (people without visas that arrive by boat without permission) are given high media visibility. This feeds a narrative that the country has lost control of its borders, which in turn creates a political problem for the government of the day.

But behind the headlines, what actually happens when people arrive in Australia without permission, whether by boat or by plane?

Read more: Boat arrivals sent to Nauru, and Sovereign Borders commander warns against politicising the issue

What is Australia obligated to do?

Anyone who’s not an Australian citizen is required to have authorisation in the form of a visa to enter and remain in the country.

What Australia can do to deal with unauthorised arrivals is limited by its international treaty obligations. The United Nations Refugee Convention and Protocol oblige Australia to refrain from sending “refugees” (as defined in those treaties) to places where they will face a real chance of persecution.

Under other treaties to which it is a party, Australia is also obliged to refrain from sending anyone, not just refugees, to places where they will face a real risk of certain serious human rights violations.

These treaty obligations are referred to as “non-refoulement” or protection obligations. People who claim the benefit of such protection obligations are called asylum seekers.

What happens to asylum seekers when they arrive?

The processes for people arriving by boat or plane have similarities, but are slightly different.

Australian policy is for unauthorised air arrivals to be given a screening interview to ascertain whether they could be entitled to Australia’s protection under international law. If not, they are returned to their most recent country of departure. Those who are found to have a possible case are given access to the protection visa application process.

The protection visa is Australia’s main domestic mechanism for implementing its international protection obligations. People who initially entered Australia on a valid visa can also apply for a protection visa. Most applicants fall into this group.

Read more: Who counts as a refugee? Four questions to understand current migration debates

Australia imposes penalties on airlines that bring non-citizens without valid visas here. It also posts its officials at overseas airports to help airlines identify people without visas so they can be refused boarding. As a result, there are very few unauthorised air arrivals to Australia.

Like people who come by plane, unauthorised maritime arrivals go through a screening process.

Those who are deemed not to be asylum seekers are returned to their most recent country of departure. This is usually, but not always, Indonesia.

Unless the responsible minister grants an exemption, unauthorised maritime arrivals who are found to have a possible asylum claim must be transferred to a regional processing country to have their asylum claims determined there.

How has regional processing worked?

Regional processing has a complicated history.

In late 2001, the Coalition government under John Howard entered arrangements with Nauru and Papua New Guinea (PNG) to take unauthorised maritime arrivals to those countries to process their asylum claims. Those arrangements were ended by Labor shortly after it won government in November 2007.

However, a resurgence of unauthorised maritime arrivals led the Gillard Labor government to enter a new set of arrangements with Nauru and PNG in late 2012. These allowed Australia to transfer unauthorised maritime arrivals to processing centres in those countries to have their asylum claims considered by their governments.

The 2012 arrangements left open the possibility that transferees who were found to be refugees might be resettled in Australia. However, when boats kept arriving, the Rudd Labor government decided to get even tougher. In 2013, it announced future unauthorised maritime arrivals would never be resettled in Australia.

After its election in September 2013, the Coalition government implemented Operation Sovereign Borders, which has been continued by the current Labor government. Many activities come under the Operation Sovereign Borders banner, including the interception of unauthorised maritime arrivals at sea by the Australian navy. Regional processing is now also characterised as being part of the program.

The regional processing arrangement with PNG ceased at the end of 2021. As of November 16 2023, there were still 64 transferees remaining in PNG. However, the Australian government’s position is that responsibility for these people lies entirely with PNG and not with Australia.

Nauru is still a regional processing country but under a new agreement. At the time it was signed in late 2021, there hadn’t been any transfers for years. However, it was considered important to maintain an “enduring regional processing capacity” on Nauru as a deterrent to people smugglers.

As previously, the Nauruan government is responsible for processing the asylum claims of transferees and managing them until they depart Nauru or are permanently settled there. However, Australia has contracted and is paying the processing centre’s service providers.

On June 25 2023, it was reported there were no transferees remaining in Nauru. This did not mean that a durable solution had been found for everyone who had been transferred to Nauru up until that time. While some people had been resettled in third countries, others had simply been brought to Australia with the legal status of “transitory persons”. This status prevents them from applying for a visa to remain in Australia unless granted ministerial permission to do so.

Australia’s options for resettling this cohort are limited. It has at its disposal the remainder of 1,250 refugee places promised by the United States in November 2016 and 450 refugee places over three years promised by New Zealand in 2022. Even if all these places are used, hundreds of people will remain in limbo.

What happens to last week’s arrivals?

Since Operation Sovereign Borders began, boats have either been intercepted at sea or have managed to make landfall in Australia every year except 2021.

However, between the start of Operation Sovereign Borders and the end of August 2023, only two out of the 1,123 boat passengers involved to that point had ever been accepted for regional processing. Both cases were in 2014.

This statistic raised serious concerns about the reliability of the screening process as the people screened included many from known refugee producing countries.

Given this history, it was a little surprising when the Australian government transferred 11 unauthorised maritime arrivals to Nauru in September 2023. A further 12 were transferred to Nauru in November 2023 . The 39 people found in Western Australia have just been transferred there too.

Read more: Aus-NZ refugee deal is a bandage on a failed policy. It's time to end offshore processing

It seems the screening process has been abandoned or has been vastly improved. While the most reliable way for Australia to meet its international protection obligations would be to give all unauthorised maritime arrivals access to its protection visa application process, giving them all access to regional processing is certainly better than sending them back to their country of departure.

However, resettlement in Nauru of those found to be refugees is not realistic. The country, which has a population of approximately 13,000 people, is only 2,200 hectares in land area. To put this in context, Melbourne airport is larger than Nauru.

There is no reason to believe it will be any easier to find third country resettlement for transferees in the future than it has been up to now. For most, the only way out of limbo will be to return home, as eight of those transferred to Nauru in September have already done . Regional processing continues to be a policy failure for which vulnerable people will pay the price.

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3 bodies in Mexican well identified as Australian and American surfers killed for truck’s tires

Relatives have identified three bodies found in a well as those of two Australian surfers and one American who went missing last weekend, Mexican authorities said Sunday. Baja California state prosecutors said the relatives had viewed the bodies recovered from a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep and recognized them as their loved ones.

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " I don’t want to die” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

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Locals march to protest the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " No more violence” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

In this image made from video, Mexico’s police officers stand guard at the Ensenada station in Ensenada, Mexico, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Mexican authorities said Thursday they have found tents and questioned a few people in the case of two Australians and an American who went missing over the weekend in the Pacific coast state of Baja California. (AP Photo)

In this image made from video, Mexican security forces frisk men at a checkpoint in Ensenada, Mexico, Thursday, May 2, 2024. Mexican authorities said Thursday they have found tents and questioned a few people in the case of two Australians and an American who went missing over the weekend in the Pacific coast state of Baja California. (AP Photo)

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " They just wanted to surf and they were executed” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

A demonstrator holds photos of the foreign surfers who disappeared during a protest in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Relatives have identified three bodies found in a well as those of two Australian surfers and one American who went missing last weekend, Mexican authorities said Sunday.

Baja California state prosecutors said the relatives had viewed the corpses recovered from a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep and recognized them as their loved ones.

Thieves apparently killed the three, who were on a surfing trip to Mexico’s Baja peninsula, to steal their truck because they wanted the tires. They then allegedly got rid of the bodies by dumping them in a well near the coast.

The well was located some 4 miles (6 kilometers) from where the foreigners were killed, and also contained a fourth cadaver that had been there much longer.

Three suspects are being held in connection with the case, which locals said was solved far more quickly than the disappearances of thousands of Mexicans.

The three men were on a camping and surfing trip along a stretch of coast south of the city of Ensenada, posting idyllic photos on social media of waves and isolated beaches, before they went missing last weekend.

Chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez described what likely would have been moments of terror that ended the trip for brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad.

She theorized the killers drove by and saw the foreigners’ pickup truck and tents and wanted to steal their tires. But “when (the foreigners) came up and caught them, surely, they resisted.”

She said that’s when the killers would have shot the tourists.

The thieves then allegedly went to what she called “a site that is extremely hard to get to” and allegedly dumped the bodies into a well they apparently were familiar with. She said investigators were not ruling out the possibility the same suspects also dumped the first, earlier body in the well as part of previous crimes.

“They may have been looking for trucks in this area,” Andrade Ramírez said.

The thieves allegedly covered the well with boards. “It was literally almost impossible to find it,” Andrade Ramírez said, and it took two hours to winch the bodies out of the well.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed sympathy for the Robinson family. “I think the whole country’s heart goes out to all of their loved ones. It has been an absolutely horrendous, absolutely horrific ordeal and our thoughts are with all of them today,” he said at a news conference Monday in the capital, Canberra.

The site where the bodies were discovered near the township of Santo Tomás was near the remote seaside area where the missing men’s tents and truck were found Thursday along the coast. From their last photo posts, the trip looked perfect. But even experienced local expatriates are questioning whether it is safe to camp along the largely deserted coast anymore.

The moderator of the local Talk Baja internet forum, who has lived in the area for almost two decades, wrote in an editorial Saturday that “the reality is, the dangers of traveling to and camping in remote areas are outweighing the benefits anymore.”

But in a way, adventure was key to the victims’ lifestyle.

Callum Robinson’s Instagram account contained the following slogan: “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room.”

At the news conference, Andrade Ramírez was questioned by one reporter who expressed approval that such a massive and rapid search was mounted for the foreigners, but asked why, when local people disappear in the area, little is often done for weeks, months, or years.

“Do you have to be a foreigner in Baja California in order for there to be an investigation if something happens to you?′ asked the reporter, who did not identify herself by name. ”Every investigation is different,” Andrade Ramírez replied.

As if to underscore that point, dozens of mourners, surfers and demonstrators gathered in a main plaza in Ensenada, the nearest city, to voice their anger and sadness at the deaths.

“Ensenada is a mass grave,” read one placard carried by protesters. “Australia, we are with you,” one man scrawled on one of the half-dozen surf boards at the demonstration.

A woman held up a sign that read “They only wanted to surf — we demand safe beaches.”

Gabriela Acosta, a surfer, attended the protest “to show love, solidarity and respect for the three lives that were lost.” Acosta said that surfers in Baja are aware of the dangers.

“We are women and we would sometimes like to surf alone,” Acosta said. “But we never do that, because of the situation. We always have to go accompanied.”

“I think that what happened to them is just an example of the lack of safety in this state,” she said.

Surfers later performed a “paddle-out” ceremony where they formed a circle on their boards in the ocean.

Baja California prosecutors had said they were questioning three people in the killings, two of them because they were caught with methamphetamines. Prosecutors said the two were being held pending drug charges but continue to be suspects in the killings.

A third man was arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping, but that was before the bodies were found. It was unclear if he might face more charges.

The third suspect was believed to have directly participated in the killings. In keeping with Mexican law, prosecutors identified him by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” a slang word that means “quesadillas,” or cheese tortillas. Andrade Ramírez said he had a criminal record, and that more people may have been involved.

Last week, the mother of the missing Australians, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page, appealing for help in finding her sons. Robinson said Callum and Jake had not been heard from since April 27. They had booked accommodation in the city of Rosarito, not far from Ensenada.

Robinson said Callum was diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

In 2015, two Australian surfers , Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas, were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California — also known as the Sea of Cortez — from the Baja peninsula. Authorities said they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

China changes story on military confrontation, accuses Australia of spying

Beijing has shifted its story on the latest confrontation between Chinese and Australian forces, claiming that one of its fighter jets intercepted an Australian helicopter because it was trying to spy on naval exercises in the Yellow Sea.

Australia lodged diplomatic protests with Beijing after a Chinese fighter jet dropped flares just in front of an Australian Seahawk helicopter enforcing UN sanctions on North Korea, with Defence Minister Richard Marles warning the incident endangered Australian personnel.

A spokesman for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Australia of "provocative" behaviour but seemed to confirm the confrontation occurred over international waters, saying the helicopter simply flew "within close range of China's airspace".

But in a later statement, the Chinese Ministry of Defence issued a different account, accusing Australia of spying on military exercises being conducted by China in the region.

"A Chinese naval fleet conducted training in relevant waters of China's Yellow Sea from May 3 to 4, during which the Australian guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart dispatched a ship-borne helicopter for three times to conduct close-in reconnaissance and disturb the normal training activities of the Chinese side," said Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang.

"Chinese troops sent a vocal warning to the Australian helicopter and conducted legitimate, reasonable, professional, and safe operations to expel it, which are fully in line with the international law and international practice."

A spokesperson for Mr Marles declined to respond, but said the government stood by its account of the incident.

Beijing has previously accused the US of spying on its forces in the wake of confrontations and interceptions in the South China Sea.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wasn't directly questioned about the spying allegation but said the statement from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs proved Australia's account was accurate.

"Indeed in the wording they've used saying they were near Chinese airspace is confirmation that there's no question that the Australian Defence Force personnel were both in international waters and airspace," he said.

"They were undertaking work on behalf of the international community enforcing UN sanctions on North Korea."

Jennifer Parker, who is an expert associate at the ANU's national security college, told the ABC that China's account was "highly unlikely" because it would represent a radical departure from the usual practice of Australian forces in the region.

"It's not Australia's normal procedure to send a helicopter to investigate the naval exercises of other countries — there are more effective ways to achieve that with satellite-based capabilities," she said.

"Also, Australia's lack of participation in FONOPS (Freedom of Navigation Operations) in the region shows the Australian approach to China has been to not be provocative.

"It would be highly unlikely for an Australian ship helicopter to provoke China like this during a naval exercise for limited to no benefits."

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