A training initiative aimed at improving local response capabilities to maritime incidents and emergencies.
NMSA is the statutory authority responsible for maritime safety regulation in Papua New Guinea.
Regulate maritime safety and operations in Papua New Guinea.
NMSA operates under the National Maritime Safety Authority Act 2003.
To be a leading maritime regulator.
We take pride in being PNG's maritime regulator for safety, search and rescue coordination, and pollution prevention.
In 2003
National Maritime Regulator
ALL PNG Waters
7 Nationwide
NMSA is the statutory authority responsible for maritime safety regulation in Papua New Guinea. Established under the National Maritime Safety Authority Act 2003, NMSA oversees vessel registration, seafarer certification, safety compliance, search and rescue coordination, and marine environmental protection.
The National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) operates through a structured governance and management framework designed to ensure effective oversight, operational efficiency, and nationwide service delivery. This structure is made up of the NMSA Board, executive management, and regional offices working collaboratively to fulfil the Authority’s mandate.
NMSA operates under the National Maritime Safety Authority Act 2003, which establishes the authority’s powers, functions, and responsibilities.
The principal legislation establishing NMSA as a statutory authority under the laws of Papua New Guinea. Refer to the full legislative framework for supporting regulations and amendments.
Official regulatory publications, compliance references, and guidance documents issued by NMSA.
Published: January 2024 · Regulatory
Published: January 2024 · Regulatory
Published: January 2024 · Regulatory
Key external organisations and government portals relevant to maritime safety in Papua New Guinea and the broader Pacific region.
International maritime Organisation
Australian Maritime Safety Authority
Official PNG Portal
Regional Authorities Network
PNG Ship Register
To be confirmed by NMSA
NMSA provides employment opportunities across maritime safety, regulation, compliance, and corporate services divisions. Join a team dedicated to protecting PNG’s maritime sector.
Apply via advertised vacancies.
We take pride in being PNG's maritime regulator for safety, search and rescue coordination, and pollution prevention.
We take pride in being PNG's maritime regulator for safety, search and rescue coordination, and pollution prevention.
24/7 Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre. For emergencies at sea.
Primary emergency line
International distress frequencies
Non-emergency maritime incident submissions and reporting (non-urgent).
Non-emergency maritime incident submissions and reporting (non-urgent).
Submit incident reports and follow-ups
Submit incident reports and follow-ups
Register vessels, access the PNG Ship Register, and meet ship safety requirements. If this relates to an incident, report immediately.
Obtain qualifications, certificates of competency, crewman record books and safe manning requirements.
Register, licence, and meet safety standards for small craft operating in PNG waters under the Navigation Act 2012.
Access aids to navigation, nautical charts, vessel tracking, and navigation warnings for safe passage in PNG waters.
24-hour maritime rescue coordination, distress communications, and national SAR planning through the MRCC
Prevent and respond to marine pollution, meet contingency planning requirements, and protect PNG's marine areas.
PNG maritime acts, regulations, IMO conventions, standards and compliance guidance administered by NMSA.
Preview the latest safety, navigation, and weather updates. Primary access sits under Legislative and Regulatory.
Preview the latest safety, navigation, and weather updates. Primary access sits under Legislative and Regulatory.
A training initiative aimed at improving local response capabilities to maritime incidents and emergencies.
A nationwide effort to raise awareness of marine pollution and its impact on maritime safety and navigation.