LR: New biofouling requirements for ships calling at Australian ports

Lloyd's Register on 15 January 2024 published a Class News regarding the New biofouling requirements for ships calling at Australian ports.

Applicability: All shipowners, ship operators, ship masters and shipping agents who represent international ships for the purposes of Australian biosecurity clearance.

As per a recent notice from the Australian Government, there are new biofouling management requirements for ships calling at Australian ports. 

An introductory period for these new requirements ended on 15 December 2023. Implementation is now focusing on transitioning to a business-as-usual approach, where operators of all ships will need to provide information on biofouling management practices prior to arriving in Australia.

Ship operators can demonstrate proactive management of biofouling by implementing one of these three accepted management options: 

1. Implementation of an effective biofouling management plan and record book.
2. Cleaned all biofouling within 30 days prior to arriving in Australian territory.
3. Implementation of an alternative biofouling management method pre-approved by the department. 

You can find out more here.

Updating your management plan

We can provide support with the preparation of your vessel’s updated Biofouling Management Plan as per the IMO’s 2023 biofouling guidelines (MEPC.378(80)) and in compliance with Australian requirements. 

LINK TO THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE

More LR class news is available HERE