Historic shipwrecks
2011 shipwreck photography competition
Photographers from all over the world are invited to enter now: AIMA 2011 shipwreck photography competition
Australia protects its shipwrecks and their associated relics that are older than 75 years through the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976. The Historic Shipwrecks Act applies to Australian waters that extend from the low tide mark to the end of the continental shelf and is administered in collaboration between the Commonwealth and the States, Northern Territory and Norfolk Island. Some Australian shipwreck sites lie within protected or no-entry zones.
The Historic Shipwrecks Act is delivered through the Historic Shipwrecks Program. Its objectives are to research, explore, document and protect Australia's historic shipwreck heritage. Each State or Territory program offers different opportunities for public participation as do maritime archaeological volunteer associations that exist in Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia.
20 January 2012
Discovery of the historic shipwreck Royal Charlotte
A joint research team from the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Silentworld Foundation have announced the discovery of remains of the historic shipwreck Royal Charlotte on Frederick Reef in the Coral Sea.
6 January 2012
Korean nationals fined for entering SS Yongala shipwreck
Two South Korean nationals received fines after pleading guilty in the Townsville Magistrates Court to charges related to offences under the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976.
16 November 2011
Prime Minister and President of the United States announce Partnering in Commemorating the Battle of the Coral Sea
In recognition of the exceptional bravery and sacrifice exemplified by our sailors and airmen who fought together in the May 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea, Australia and the United States are to work together to locate the wrecks of three U.S. warships sunk in Australian waters during this pivotal two-day clash.
25 October 2011
HMS Sirius shipwreck added to the National Heritage list
The Environment Minister has announced that the HMS Sirius shipwreck site at Norfolk Island has been added to Australia's National Heritage List.
30 September 2011
Field trip by Northern Territory students to the SS Brisbane shipwreck
On the 30 September the Northern Territory Heritage Branch led an expedition of year 11 photography students from Darwin High School to the shipwreck SS Brisbane (1874-1881).