New chief for offshore safety
The Australian Government has announced the appointment of Kaylene Dale as the new CEO of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
Ms Dale, who assumes her role on 1 October 2024, brings experience from her tenure in the Australian Border Force (ABF), where she has held several key leadership positions, including Deputy Commissioner for Strategy and Capability.
Ms Dale’s appointment is seen as a significant step in continuing AMSA’s work in maritime safety, environmental protection, and national search and rescue operations.
Catherine King, the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, has expressed her confidence in Ms Dale's ability to lead AMSA.
“I welcome Ms Dale to the role, where her leadership will help us continue to enhance the critical role AMSA plays in protecting our marine environment, supporting safe navigation and marine safety, as well as providing a national search and rescue service,” King said.
Ms Dale’s background in Commonwealth regulatory settings and her experience with AMSA’s search and rescue functions during her time at the ABF are expected to serve her well in her new role.
Ms Dale succeeds Mick Kinley, who served as AMSA’s CEO for a decade.
Mr Kinley is credited with steering AMSA through several significant challenges, including the global pandemic and the implementation of Australia's single regulatory framework for domestic commercial vessels.
His tenure also saw AMSA's active engagement with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and efforts to support maritime safety improvements in Pacific nations.
Ms Dale’s leadership at AMSA is anticipated to build on this foundation.