17 March 2023
Who does this notice affect?
All vessel owners, operators, masters, and shipping agents who represent international commercial vessels including cruise vessels utilising MARS offline forms to meet vessel reporting requirements.
What has changed?
The department has become aware of some reported issues with MARS offline forms when vessel masters or shipping agents are uploading them into MARS. The issue is related to utilising Adobe Reader or other PDF program reader.
What do you need to do?
It is recommended that MARS offline form users:
- Download the latest version of Adobe Reader which is free and available to download from the Adobe website.
- Download the latest offline form templates from the department’s MARS offline forms webpage (23 February update) to avoid errors and delays when submitting information from the offline forms into MARS. MARS offline forms
- Submit the offline form information into MARS.
As an alternative to direct MARS access, offline forms can be used by vessel masters or shipping agents where there is limited or unreliable internet connectivity to meet pre-arrival reporting obligations.
The MARS offline forms were revised on 23 February 2023.
Vessel masters and shipping agents who report directly into the MARS portal can continue as usual. No changes are necessary.
Further information
To access the latest MARS offline forms and steps on how to download these forms click here.
If you have difficulties accessing the offline forms, contact the National Maritime Centre for assistance.