Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS)

Application for modification to ICVMS requirements

Since 1 July 2007, all Commonwealth fishing concessions have carried conditions relating to fitment of an integrated computer vessel monitoring system (ICVMS).

Concession holders not complying with these conditions are in breach of section 95(1) of the Fisheries Management Act (1991). In general, this means nominated vessels must have installed and operating an approved Inmarsat-C automatic location communicator (ALC), and this must be connected to a personal computer.

AFMA may, in writing, authorise an alternative vessel monitoring system (VMS) in circumstances where power supply, space limitations or weather protection make the fitment of an ICVMS impractical.

The following alternatives may be considered:

• An exemption from the requirement to have a personal computer linked to the approved Inmarsat-C ALC, or
• An exemption allowing substitution of the ICVMS with an Inmarsat D+ ALC.

To be considered for one of these options, concession holders need to fill out an Application for ICVMS Modification form . All fields must be completed, and the form returned by fax to:

02 6225 5442 (Attn: VMS area)

or by mail to:

Vessel Monitoring Systems
Level 5 – Domestic Compliance
Australian Fisheries Management Authority Box 7051
Canberra Business Centre ACT 2610

If you have any questions regarding the application for modification to ICVMS process, please contact the VMS area – ph: 02 6225 5414 or email vmsinfo@afma.gov.au .

Application for modification to ICVMS requirements (PDF, 33kb)

Page last updated 26 March, 2008