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Posted by Allen Newton
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1 April, 2026
AN AUSTRALIAN exercise to ready the country for a major maritime oil spill has been hailed a success by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
Alex Barrell, AMSA executive director response said Exercise Transit Challenge 2026 had successfully tested Australia’s arrangements for responding to a major maritime environmental emergency and had demonstrated strong coordination between national, state, port and industry partners.
The exercise held last week off the coast of Perth was led by AMSA in partnership with the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure Western Australia and Fremantle Ports, with support from national and state response agencies and non-Government organisations.
More than 300 national, state and local personnel under the National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies, simulated a maritime collision offshore of Woodman Point, resulting in a fuel oil spill.
Incident Management Teams were established in Canberra and Fremantle to coordinate the response to the exercise, with the establishment of a Forward Operating Base at Jervoise Bay Sailing Club, and the integration of national and state response capabilities, including the Australian Marine Oil Spill Centre (AMOSC) and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
“Regular training strengthens coordination between agencies and ensures response arrangements remain robust and fit for purpose,” Mr Barrell said.
“Whilst large-scale pollution incidents are not common, exercises like this are essential to ensure agencies can work together effectively to protect people, the environment, and maritime industries.
“It was great being on-site and seeing teams from all levels of government and partner agencies take part and identify lessons and outcomes that will further strengthen our response arrangements.
“AMSA joins all participating agencies in thanking local communities, stakeholders and maritime users for their cooperation during the exercise.”
