The Department is committed to the delivery of a robust regulatory regime that prioritises safe shipping and the protection of the marine environment from the adverse effects of shipping.

The Department undertakes a range of tasks and functions related to the protection of the marine environment from the adverse effects of shipping, including actively participating in the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) at the International Maritime Organization; developing legislation to implement new and amended International Convention obligations and other changes agreed by Government; oversight of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA); and contributing to the development of other Australian Government environment policy as it relates to shipping. AMSA leads the delegation at MEPC and is also responsible for ensuring compliance with the relevant Commonwealth legislation.