e-Logbooks
Electronic Logs fishers’ frequently asked questions
This series of questions and answers is intended to help you understand the recent electronic logbook initiatives from AFMA:
When will the new schema be released?
The e-log schema will be been released in September 2008. AFMA will run a change control process to notify interested stakeholders whenever a change to a schema is envisaged.
How will I know the release date?
The release or the schema will be notified in AFMA update and posted via the AFMA website. Alternatively if you care to register your interest with the Co-ordinator at elogs@afma.gov.au the schema and accompanying documentation can be forwarded to you on release.
I currently use an e-Logs software product, how will I be affected?
Due to the new schema development your current software will not be compliant with AFMA requirements for the electronic submission of logbooks.
There will be a requirement for software developers to submit their software for testing and accreditation to ensue that the resultant log will be compliant with the new AFMA systems. You will need to upgrade your software to an accredited version to continue submitting e-logbook returns.
How often are reports required?
There will be no change to the current reporting requirement for data to be sent to AFMA. However should you wish to submit electronic reports more frequently, you will be allowed to do so.
Will I still have to complete a paper logbook?
No, if you are using the electronic reporting system to record and send your data to AFMA you will not have to complete a paper logbook.
However, you will need to have the equivalent paper logbook on board the vessel as a backup in the event of computer failure. When you first choose to report electronically, AFMA may ask you to fill out the paper logbook as well for a short time to iron out any problems that may arise.
What equipment is required?
Vessel management systems are being used increasingly to record information about the activities of fishing vessels for use by the vessel owner.
AFMA expect that the electronic logbook reporting system will be an additional software module within a vessel management system. No extra equipment should be required but AFMA does not have control over the software vendors requirements.
How do I locate a software vendor?
AFMA will publish a list of accredited e-Log compliant vendors on its web site.
You can use this list to contact and consult a professional software vendor for advice.
You may be approached by vendors interested in selling their product or you may contact other fishers who you know are satisfied with their vessel management systems.
While AFMA does not endorse or approve any particular software product or vendor, a list of software that has been accepted for electronic reporting is available at Software Versions Accredited by AFMA. AFMA's knowledge of these systems is limited to their electronic logbook reporting capabilities.
Should you select software not previously tested by AFMA, your software vendor will need to comply with AFMA's specifications, register their wish to send test transmissions and to follow AFMA's procedures.
Is electronic reporting user-friendly?
The vendors of existing vessel management systems work in conjunction with fishers to make their products as user friendly as possible. All AFMA can tell you is an accredited software supplier can generate a compliant e-Logbook data file.
AFMA will not assess the ease of use of an e-Logbook system. The vendor should provide advice, information and training on how to use the software you select.
How much will it cost?
AFMA has no control over the price of a vessel management software package. This will depend on the vendors who develop these systems and the capabilities of the software you select. AFMA will not subsidise the cost of electronic logbook reporting.
There will be a cost involved in sending the data electronically to AFMA depending on the method selected by the vendor of the vessel management system to transmit the data, i.e. e-mail from shore, satellite phone, Inmarsat and Telstra's G3 mobile network.
The particular transmission technology used will not effect how AFMA receives the data so long as you use an AFMA certified and accredited supplier. You should seek advice as to which method of transmission might be most appropriate in your region and the pattern of fishing.
How does my logbook data stay confidential?
To do business electronically, you must be able to trust that the electronic communications systems meets basic security requirements.
To do this AFMA is using a combination of username/password for all internet transmissions, or a combination of username/password and digital certificate for email transmissions to offer protection for your e-Logbook data.
This procedure and technology allows you, as the sender of a message, to electronically sign your electronic logbook return and protection during transmission.
Page last updated: 9 September, 2008
Review date: December 2008
Content owner: Bob Stanley |
