Foreign-flagged bulk carrier banned from Australian ports due to wage nonpayments

AMSA officials also detected several other issues during the inspection and identified 18 deficiencies, including four detainable deficiencies. When the deficiencies had been rectified, the vessel was directed to not enter Australian waters until September 4, 2026.

Under the Maritime Labour Convention, vessel owners must meet minimum standards for living and working conditions for seafarers, including the timely payment of wages, safe accommodation, adequate rest and access to support.

“AMSA will always act decisively when seafarer welfare is confirmed at risk," said Greg Witherall, AMSA Acting Executive Director Operations. "This detention of Ocean Bright is an example of actively enforcing the Maritime Labour Convention where the rules are clearly in breach and standing up for seafarers’ rights."