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Posted by David Sexton
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6 July, 2026
GREG Witherall says he is looking forward to working with all maritime sector stakeholders to make for a safer industry.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority has just announced the appointment of Mr Witherall as its executive director operations, highlighting his background as a master mariner and having more than 30 years' relevant experience.
His career spans frontline seafaring, vessel command, safety regulation and executive leadership.
Mr Witherall began his career in Canada's fishing industry before progressing to captain in the international cruise sector.
Since joining AMSA in 2010 as a port marine surveyor, Mr Witherall is said to have helped shape AMSA's approach to maritime safety regulation, seafarer welfare and industry engagement.
AMSA chief executive Kaylene Dale said Mr Witherall's appointment reflected his deep maritime expertise, proven leadership and longstanding commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection and seafarer welfare.
"Greg brings exceptional operational and regulatory expertise to this role, backed by more than three decades of maritime experience across vessel command, industry operations and maritime safety regulation," Ms Dale said.
“His appointment, following a competitive process, strengthens AMSA's ability to deliver modern, risk-based regulation that protects lives at sea, safeguards Australia's marine environment and supports productivity, resilience and sustainability across the maritime sector.
"He is widely respected across the sector and has consistently demonstrated the leadership, technical expertise and strategic judgement needed to navigate an increasingly complex operating environment.
"He will continue to ensure operators are held to account when they fail to meet their obligations under Australian and international law.”
During his time at AMSA, Mr Witherall has helped strengthen Australia's maritime regulatory capability, improve services for seafarers and industry and modernise certification through the myAMSA platform, making it easier and faster for people to enter the industry.
He has also led regulatory action to protect seafarer welfare and ensure maritime employers meet their lawful obligations.
Mr Witherall said he was honoured to lead Australia's national maritime regulatory operations.
"AMSA plays a critical role in protecting lives at sea, safeguarding Australia's marine environment and supporting a strong and sustainable maritime industry," Mr Witherall said.
"Australia relies on a safe, resilient and efficient maritime sector. I look forward to working with industry, governments and maritime stakeholders to strengthen safety outcomes, uphold seafarer welfare standards and maintain confidence in Australia's maritime regulatory system."
As executive director operations, Mr Witherall leads AMSA's national regulatory operations, including vessel inspection, compliance and enforcement activities that help uphold safety standards, protect seafarers and passengers, and safeguard Australia's marine environment.
