Search and rescue

As mariners who are constantly operating at sea conducting training or transiting between ports, Navy people stand ready to support search and rescue operations.

Whether it is a stricken vessel or injured mariner, Navy works closely with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to respond to these situations whenever possible.

Domestic support

When resources are insufficient or overwhelmed during a crisis, States and Territories can seek Commonwealth assistance, including Defence assistance, through Emergency Management Australia. Defence provides this assistance through Defence Assistance to the Civil Community (DACC).

In recent years, Navy alongside Army and Air Force has supported assist missions in response to floods, bushfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

International support

Defence provides support in times of international humanitarian crises, particularly for Australia's neighbours in the South Pacific and South East Asia.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief aid is coordinated and provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

Navy’s ships, boats, aircraft and specialist personnel are an invaluable capability in providing humanitarian responses in other nations’ time of need.