The Boating Industry Association (BIA) has launched a new accreditation program for its 60-plus Marine Broker members, aimed at lifting consumer confidence in the boat-buying process.
Marine brokers play a central role in the vessel ownership lifecycle, handling listings, negotiations, sales contracts and the secure distribution of funds. The new BIA Marine Brokers Accreditation Program is designed to ensure customers experience transparent adherence to best practices and statutory requirements, managing risks without detracting from the appeal of boat ownership.
The initiative also delivers on formal recommendations from the NSW Coroner following the Beeby Inquiry, which called for a robust broker program, and supports the Australia New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group’s ‘Responsible Boat Owner’ campaign, promoting owner responsibility from the moment a vessel changes hands.
BIA CEO Andrew Fielding said the program responds to both regulatory pressure and shifting market expectations. “With market and regulatory forces driving preferences toward increased consumer protection, proactive self-regulation is always the superior path for our industry,” he said. “This program directly addresses these shifting expectations, lowering costs and regulatory burdens on businesses while delivering rigorous standards that protect the public and elevate industry professionalism.”
To achieve accreditation, brokerage businesses must hold BIA membership, use approved documentation, participate in dispute resolution, and maintain an independent client funds account. Individual brokers must also complete Marine Card workplace health and safety training and participate annually in a Continuing Professional Development program.
Fielding pointed to the benefits for both buyers and the broader industry. “Our accredited brokers will rightfully be recognised as preferred providers in the eyes of consumers,” he said. “This initiative lifts consumer confidence across the entire boating ecosystem, ensuring everyday Australians can buy and sell their vessels with peace of mind.”
Accredited brokers gain exclusive rights to display approved branding, supported by a promotional program to help buyers identify accredited businesses. The BIA has also launched a dedicated public-facing platform through its Discover Boating website, with a live search function allowing consumers to locate an accredited broker near them.
