What you need to do
An updated version of Exemption 31 - Marine Safety (Expired pre-USL Code certificates) came into effect on 1 July 2025.
If you currently operate under exemption 31 you must:
- reapply and receive a new approval by 31 January 2026, or
- apply for a national law certificate of competency using your expired certificate.
Apply as early as possible to avoid disruptions.
What exemption 31 allows
This exemption allows holders of expired pre-Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) Code certificates to continue working on domestic commercial fishing vessels without a current certificate of competency.
Who can apply
To qualify for exemption 31, you must:
- hold an expired pre-USL Code certificate that was issued before 1 July 2013 and expired before 1 January 2014
- have worked in commercial fishing in the 5 years before 30 June 2013
- have continued working in the same capacity and limitations as in the original certificate
- be approved by AMSA to operate under the exemption.
You must also declare any medical conditions that may affect your ability to operate a vessel and provide supporting documentation.
Please note these changes only affect people with an expired pre-USL Code certificate currently operating under exemption 31.
Perpetual certificate holders can still use their certificate in the state it was issued according to the certificate's conditions.
