Report a boat accident or incident

A person operating a boat that is involved in an accident or incident, or witnesses an incident, must stop and give assistance and make a report. The owner, master or operator of any vessel involved in an accident or incident in South Australian waters that results in loss of life, personal injury or property damage must report the event.

There are penalties if this is not done.

Commercial vessels, including hire and drive houseboats also need to complete a Australian Maritime Safety Authority Incident report form 19.

You don't need to submit a report if:

  • personal injury is minor and does not require medical attention
  • property damage is less than $1,000.

Reports must be lodged within 48 hours of the incident.

Provide details of the accident and where it occurred. Include photographic evidence if you have any.

What happens next

Marine Safety Compliance will investigate the matter and will be in contact with you if necessary.

The report will be also used for statistical purposes.


Contact Marine Safety SA

Email


Related information

Other websites

Australian Maritime Safety Authority


Was this page useful?

Thanks for contributing - your feedback helps us improve this website.


Page last updated 8 October 2026

Provided by:
Department for Infrastructure and Transport
URL:
https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/boating-and-marine/boat-and-marine-reporting/accident
Last Updated:
08/10/26
Printed on:
11/10/26
Copyright statement:
SA.GOV.AU is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence. © Copyright 2026
Close