Australia has taken strict action against a foreign bulk carrier after serious issues involving unpaid crew wages and poor living conditions were discovered onboard.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) inspected the vessel while it was docked at the Port of Newcastle. During the inspection, authorities found that crew members had not received their salaries for almost seven months, with unpaid wages reaching nearly AU$69,000.

Aside from unpaid wages, inspectors also reported multiple deficiencies onboard the vessel. These included lack of proper food supply, inadequate access to drinking water, and other safety concerns affecting the welfare of seafarers. Due to these findings, the ship was classified as substandard and unfit for normal operations.

As a result, AMSA immediately detained the vessel and later imposed a six-month ban, preventing it from entering or operating in Australian ports and waters. The ban is set to remain in effect until October 2026.

Authorities emphasized that failure to pay crew wages is a direct violation of international maritime rules under the Maritime Labour Convention. The regulator stressed that such actions are unlawful and unacceptable, especially considering the basic rights of seafarers working onboard international vessels.