“IMO’s Autonomous Ship Code: What it Means for Us,” was a presentation hosted at Mills Oakley Offices on March 19, 2026 and delivered by Mehrangiz Shahbakhsh and Capt. Melwyn Noronha from Shipping Australia Limited (SAL) to the Sydney Marine Discussion Group.
The presentation focused on the draft non-mandatory IMO MASS Code, which is expected to be adopted at IMO MSC 111 in May 2026.
The Code remains under review, and details may change prior to its final approval. For the most current information, participants are encouraged to consult the IMO website.
Highlights of the presentation include:
* A comprehensive explanation of the Code’s structure and objectives
* The implications for shipping companies as the industry transitions towards more autonomous operations
* Noteworthy examples from around the world, including Norway’s Yara Birkeland container feeder, ASKO Sea drones, the AUTOSHIP project in Europe, Korea’s KASS project, and Japan’s MEGURI 2040 programme. These initiatives demonstrate active investment and progress in autonomous shipping technologies.
The Autonomous Ship Code will shape the future of operational standards, safety obligations, and technological investments in shipping.
