The International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers has re-recognised the Australasian Hydrographic Surveyors Certification Scheme (AHSCS) for a further six years.
For more than two decades, the AHSCS has helped ensure hydrographic surveys are conducted by accredited professionals, reducing the risk of incidents and promoting marine safety and environmental protection.
Managed by Defence's Australian Hydrographic Office, the scheme enables the majority of marine pursuits and hydrographic surveying that support the production of nautical charts.
Commodore Robyn Phillips, Chair of the Australasian Hydrographic Surveyors Certification Scheme, highlighted the significance of this recognition.
"This re-recognition is an important milestone and attests to the calibre and rigour of Australia's scheme," Commodore Phillips said.
"Australia has the third-largest exclusive economic zone in the world, and it is important that we manage this significant area in a manner that is safe and environmentally responsible."
The AHSCS is designed to ensure that surveying specialists have the appropriate skills, knowledge and experience to meet contemporary demands.
Established in 1994, and jointly sponsored by the Geospatial Council of Australia and Survey and Spatial New Zealand, the AHSCS certifies hydrographic surveyors in Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
