The design and construction of new recreational boats supplied in Australia is subject to fewer mandatory controls than in Europe and the USA. The supply of new recreational boats, including owner-built boats, is principally regulated through the application of the National Standard for the Australian Builders Plate (ABP) for Recreational Boats. That standard addresses the key contributing factors in fatal accidents in Australia, as determined through NMSC's research: sinking of smaller boats after a capsize, over-loading and over-powering.

NMSC also has a relationship with Standards Australa to assist in the maintenance of the AS1799 series of standards covering aspects of the safe design and construction of small recreational boats. Compliance with any Australian Standard is not mandatory unless the standard is specifically referenced in a regulatory instrument. Compliance with certain elements of AS1799 provides one of several different options to meet legal obligations under the National Standard for the Australian Builders Plate for Recreational Boats and the National Standard for Commercial Vessels; but in general, the AS1799 suite of standards simply provides informative guidance about good safety practice.

A copy of AS1799.1 can be downloaded by clicking here. Copies of other Parts of the AS1799 suite of standards must be purchased from SAI Global Ltd.

Advice on fitting flotation to existing boats is available by clicking here.

Some useful tips on safety aspects to look out for in a recreational boat are available by clicking here.