Landmark agreement paves way for unified marine rescue service
Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) have confirmed an agreement has been signed, paving the way for Queensland’s Coast Guard Flotillas to begin transitioning to MRQ.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in the establishment of a single, integrated, government-funded marine rescue service for Queensland.
In a coordinated transition process, all 21 Coast Guard Flotillas currently operating in Queensland will progressively join MRQ, strengthening volunteer marine rescue capability across the state.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed the announcement, saying it reflects months of collaborative work and a shared commitment to public safety.
“This is an historic step forward for marine rescue in Queensland. It brings us closer to the vision of a single, unified service that supports all Queenslanders on the water, no matter where they are.
“We are proud to welcome Coast Guard volunteers into MRQ and to build on their legacy of service to local communities.”
The transition will be supported through structured pre-transition activities, with a strong focus on local engagement, continuity of service, and volunteer support.
AVCGA National Commodore Matthew Semmens said the Deed represents a new chapter in moving towards one united service.
“Our volunteers have served their communities with dedication for decades, and we are committed to supporting them as Flotillas work through the next steps,” Commodore Semmens said.
“We look forward to working with MRQ to ensure a smooth transition that preserves local identity and strengthens future marine rescue capability.”
Once complete, volunteer marine rescue in Queensland will be delivered by more than 2000 volunteers across 46 locations, responding to more than 4,000 marine incidents each year.
Marine Rescue Queensland was established in 2024 as part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to improve emergency marine response through a unified model under the Queensland Police Service.
