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When it comes to Seafarer welfare, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) won’t hesitate to take action.  AMSA has banned the second vessel from Australian waters and ports in 2026 for failing to “meet minimum standards for seafarers’ living conditions”.  As with the Ocean Bright in March, the BBG Wuzhou has been banned for approximately 6 months.

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AMSA reported that the Chinese-owned, Liberian-flagged, 81,895 deadweight vessel, having arrived in Newcastle earlier this month, did not have sufficient food onboard and failed to provide the crew members with free drinking water.  What’s more, the crew had reportedly not been paid for seven months.

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AMSA Acting Executive Director of Operations, Greg Witherall, emphasized the seriousness of the violations, stating that “Australia has zero tolerance for such conduct.  It is unlawful, unethical, and a clear breach of our laws and values.”

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The latest ban makes clear Australia’s firm stance on seafarer welfare and AMSA’s vigilance in holding vessel owners and operators accountable.

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Read More at The Maritime Executive