NMSA delivers its mandate through two operational divisions plus corporate support.
DivisionMaritime Operations Division
Ship Surveys & Inspection
Survey and inspection of vessels to verify compliance with national and international safety standards, for both initial registration and ongoing certification.
Navigation Safety
Installation and maintenance of aids to navigation — lighthouses, beacons and buoys — along PNG’s shipping routes and approaches.
Hydrography
Hydrographic surveying and nautical charting of PNG waters, and the publication of notices to mariners.
Marine Environment Protection
Prevention, preparedness and response for ship-sourced marine pollution in line with MARPOL obligations.
Search & Rescue
Coordination of maritime search and rescue operations across PNG’s search and rescue region, 24 hours a day.
Marine Domain Awareness
Monitoring of vessel traffic and maritime activity in PNG waters to support safety, security and enforcement.
Small Craft Safety
Safety standards, awareness and support for small craft operators in coastal and island communities.
Maritime Administration Division
Maritime Standards
Development and maintenance of maritime safety standards, and implementation of the international conventions to which PNG is a party.
Qualifications & Crewing
Assessment and certification of seafarer qualifications and vessel crewing requirements under STCW standards.
Pilotage Administration
Administration of pilotage services and licensing of marine pilots in designated PNG ports and pilotage areas.
Ships Registry
Maintains the PNG Ship Register and issues certificates of registry and related documentation.
For ship ownersCommunity Development
Outreach programs to coastal and island communities on maritime safety awareness, small craft safety, and marine environment protection.
Enforcement
Enforcement of maritime laws and regulations, investigation of maritime incidents, and prosecution of violations of maritime safety standards.
Corporate Services
Corporate Services is internal-facing and supports the operational divisions through finance, human resources, ICT and administration.