Replacement of Inmarsat C VMS devices on Commonwealth vessels

Inmarsat C Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) devices have now reached ‘end of life’.

The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) advises all Commonwealth fishers to replace these devices before 22 March 2024 as they are not permitted for use in Commonwealth Fisheries as a VMS device after this time.

Operators are advised to replace any remaining Inmarsat C devices, fitted/used to meet Commonwealth VMS requirements, as soon as practical, and by no later than 22 March 2024.

AFMA’s approved list includes a range of alternate devices suitable for various fishing operations and circumstances. Operators should contact their preferred suppliers to discuss replacement options.

Any Commonwealth vessels using Inmarsat C devices to meet Commonwealth VMS obligations, beyond this date may face licence suspensions and/or orders to return to port.

Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) — international organisations regulating regional fishing activities in the high seas — have also directed that existing Inmarsat C devices are prohibited for use beyond 22 March 2024.

In October 2020, AFMA advised fishers that it had withdrawn approval for the use/installation of Inmarsat C devices to meet our VMS requirements. At this time, these units were ‘grandfathered’ allowing existing units to remain, but no new or second-hand units were to be installed or transferred between vessels.

In April this year, AFMA strongly encouraged operators to replace Inmarsat C devices as soon as possible, or risk being unable to fish when the devices ultimately fail.

Enquiries can also be directed to the AFMA VMS team at ausvms@afma.gov.au or (02) 6225 5555. Dual endorsed operators should also contact their relevant state/territory fisheries agency to ensure the suitability of replacement devices.