(1) The master of a regulated Australian vessel, a domestic commercial vessel or a recreational vessel that has Australian nationality must ensure that the vessel is operated in a manner that does not cause:
(a) pollution to the marine environment in seas that are beyond the territorial sea and the exclusive economic zone of Australia; or
(b) damage to the marine environment in seas that are beyond the territorial sea and the exclusive economic zone of Australia.
(2) A person commits an offence if the person contravenes subsection ( 1).
(3 ) Recklessness or negligence is the fault element for:
(a) the manner of operation of the vessel; and
(b) the result mentioned in paragraph ( 1)(a) or (b) occurring.
Civil penalty
(4 ) A person is liable to a civil penalty if the person contravenes subsection ( 1).
Civil penalty:
(a) for an aggravated contravention--6,000 penalty units; or
(b) in an y other case--600 penalty units.