MID COAST MARINE SERVICES | RESOURCES
Free Annual SMS Review Checklist for DCV Operators
Marine Order 504 (MO 504) requires every domestic commercial vessel to have a Safety Management System (SMS) that is in place and actually used. But an SMS written two years ago may not match how you operate today. Download our free checklist to review your SMS in one sitting, with your owner, master and crew.
Written by James Parnell · Published 27 September 2026 · Source: Marine Order 504 (Certificates of Operation — National Law) 2024
What Marine Order 504 requires
Your SMS must match your vessel, your crew and the work you do, and it must be followed on board. Since 1 June 2025, your SMS must also include:
- a drug and alcohol policy
- the fatigue risks for the master and crew in your risk assessment
- statements of the master's and designated person's responsibilities
- the operational risks to vessel stability, plus a record of any changes that affect stability
A yearly review is the simplest way to make sure nothing has been missed.
What's in the checklist
A 3-page printable PDF that covers nine areas: vessel and operation details, roles and responsibilities, risk assessment, procedures and policies, crew induction and training, drills, maintenance and safety equipment, incidents and records, and document control. Every item has Yes/No boxes and an action column, and there's a sign-off section for the owner and master at the end.
Download the free checklist
Printable PDF. Covers all nine areas of your SMS, with Yes/No tick boxes, an action column and a sign-off section. Ready to use today.
Download the free checklist →Want MO 504 updates and new free templates? Enter your email (optional).
From paper checklist to done-for-you
A paper checklist works once a year, but your SMS needs to work every day. The SMS Marine app keeps your checklists, drills, maintenance, incidents and crew inductions in one place, and reminds you when your review is due.
Ready to take your SMS off the shelf?
SMS Marine keeps your Safety Management System live on your phone, with reminders, records and everything audit-ready.
About the author
James Parnell is a former AMSA Marine Safety Inspector, Eastern Australian Support Group Manager (Royal Australian Navy) and Sydney Ferries operations manager. He holds a Diploma of Work Health and Safety.
This checklist is general information only and is not legal or safety advice. Operators remain responsible for meeting their own regulatory obligations. Always check the current Marine Order 504 and AMSA guidance for your vessel.
Sources:
- Changes to SMS requirements from 1 June 2025 – AMSA
- Consultation feedback report on Marine Order 504 – AMSA