Victorian MSAR Flotillas & Setup Guide
Explore Victoria’s independent, Life Saving Victoria (LSV), and State Emergency Service (SES) Marine Search and Rescue units. Learn how to establish a new MSAR flotilla with our training and compliance resources to enhance maritime safety.
MSAR Units in Victoria
List of independent, LSV, and SES marine rescue units, providing critical search and rescue services across Victoria’s coastlines and waterways.
| Name | Address | Phone | Website |
|---|
How to Establish a New MSAR Flotilla
Follow these steps to incorporate a new Marine Search and Rescue unit and gain accreditation under Victoria’s MSAR framework, based on the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 and EMV guidelines.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure at least 5 members and a non-profit structure. Members can benefit from services (e.g., training).
- Choose Name: Select a name reflecting your purpose (e.g., "Mallacoota MSAR Inc."). Must end in "Incorporated" or "Inc." Check availability on ASIC registers.
- Create Rules & Purpose: Draft rules covering 23 matters in the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (Schedule 1). Include purposes like marine rescue, training, and emergency response. Use model rules or customize (see MMSAR example).
- Vote to Incorporate: Hold a meeting with 21+ days’ notice. Majority vote to authorize incorporation and approve rules. Appoint a secretary (18+, Australian resident).
- Lodge Incorporation: Apply via myCAV. Upload rules, pay fee (Visa/Mastercard/BPAY). Receive certificate upon approval.
- Apply for MSAR Accreditation (Stage 1): Submit a proposal to msar.office@emv.vic.gov.au with service area, operations (e.g., search/rescue, towing), personnel list (e.g., coxswain certs), schedule, and comms plan. Get executive endorsement. MSAR Working Group/Board reviews; EMC approves (12 months).
- Equip & Train: Acquire AMSA-compliant vessels (EX24 standards), train crew (coxswain, first aid), secure insurance/funding (e.g., VESEP grants).
- Stage 2 Approval: Resubmit with certifications. MSAR Office audits; EMC approves for dispatch by Victoria Police.
- Maintain Compliance: Ensure 24/7 availability, incident reporting, and audits. Contact EMV for support.