Australia and New Zealand Biofouling – 1st Edition

DUE IN JANUARY 2026 – EBOOK AND HARDCOPY WILL BE AVAILABLE.

This first edition details the regulatory frameworks governing the management of biofouling on ships operating in Australian and New Zealand waters. Australia’s layered federal and state regulatory systems combined with diverse port ownership structures present significant compliance challenges for shipowners, operators and agents. New Zealand’s 2023 Craft Risk Management Standard (CRMS) for Vessels is the strictest biofouling management regime in the world, backed by rigorous enforcement and the potential for substantial penalties for non-compliance.

The publication also examines the AFS Convention, port entry requirements, penalties for non-compliance and the impact of biofouling on ship hydrodynamics and operating costs. It provides practical guidance on ship inspection and cleaning, supported by a comprehensive set of data sheets for in-water hull cleaning companies, including location maps. The appendices provide a set of official checklists for in-water cleaning, the MPI Vessel Checklist and Reporting Form, the MPI Biosecurity Pre-Arrival Report, and commentary on the 2023 Biofouling Guidelines.

This is an essential guide for maritime professionals operating in or entering Australian and New Zealand waters, providing clear insight into compliance obligations and effective preparation for port entry, helping to minimise disruption, delays and unexpected costs.