DAFF - IIAN 359-2025: Expanded Vessel Monitoring Coverage in MARS

23 October 2025

Smarter Pratique Issuance Enabled by Satellite-Enhanced Vessel Tracking

The Department is pleased to announce a significant enhancement to the Maritime Arrival Reporting System (MARS) that will benefit external maritime stakeholders.

Expanded Coverage with Satellite Support

To improve maritime situational awareness and operational efficiency, the Department has integrated a new vessel monitoring feed into MARS. This feed leverages a fleet of low-earth orbiting satellites, complementing existing terrestrial AIS receivers. The result is broader and more reliable vessel coverage, particularly in remote and offshore areas where terrestrial reception is limited.

Smarter Pratique Issuance

With this enhanced coverage, MARS will now trigger Pratique issuance when a commercial vessel (excluding cruise vessels) is detected within 12 nautical miles of its first port of arrival, rather than upon entry into Australian waters. This change ensures more accurate and timely health clearance processes, aligning with operational realities and improving responsiveness.

What This Means for You

• Improved visibility of vessel movements in remote regions
• More precise timing for Pratique issuance
• Streamlined biosecurity and port arrival coordination

This enhancement supports the Department's ongoing commitment to modernising maritime systems and aligns with future initiatives such as the Australian Maritime Single Window and autonomous shipping readiness.