Managed Services versus Legal Costs

Table of contents

It is surprising…..

ChatGPT Image Sep 3 2026 09 17 13 AM

Recently, one of our clients had an incident onboard that required legal representation.  He was quoted a minimum of $150,000 to not only engage a lawyer, but also  the documentation preparation, court appearances and more.

Like you, we were shocked at this figure! In these times, especially in our industry, there is no room for this type of financial commitment without any given notice.

This year for some crazy reason, we have witnessed first-hand so many incidents both on the water and on land that have seriously affected our clients, their business and staff/crew.  Combined with AMSA’s revision of Marine Order 504 and the increase of inspections, compliancy has never been more important. 

We have seen a significant increase in our clients moving to our Managed Services model which provides a more feasible financial solution, compliance and peace of mind.

Let’s explain the model – Shorlink Managed Services (MS)

Safety Management System

Firstly, let’s start with the heart of your marine business – the Safety Management System (SMS). You NEED a well-developed safety management system that not only meets Schedule 1 (and 2) of Marine Order 504, the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) and Work Health and Safety legislation but also provides significant legal protection in the event of an incident or accident when adhered to and is a valuable training tool when used correctly!  This requires constant monitoring to ensure that it is up-to-date to ensure compliance and protection. – WE INCLUDE THIS!

Documentation

Following on from the SMS, ensuring ALL documentation including but not limited to Forms, Policies, Procedures, Training/Maintenance records, Fatigue Risk Management Plan etc is reviewed at least annually – WE INCLUDE THIS!

Monitoring and Assessing

With ongoing changes that are arising within AMSA, but also your business.  New crew? They need induction and training and for it to be recorded correctly.  Are Logbooks being completed correctly? It is A LOT and requires constant monitoring, assessment and updating to ensure both you, your business, crew and staff are safe and legally protected – WE INCLUDE THIS!

Maritime Consultancy

Your crew call you as they have had an incident on the water.  What do you do?

Having maritime consultancy in your back pocket available when needed provides you with direct access to our team for any or all consultancy requirements.  It does not necessarily have to be an incident.  If you have a crew/staff member that has lodged a complaint, or AMSA completed an inspection and have questions – WE INCLUDE THIS!

Training

We all know the importance of safety and education for all.  Did you know that you are required to complete training on a regular basis AND complete the necessary documentation correctly to maintain compliance – WE INCLUDE THIS (option and bespoke to your needs)!

The Cost and Term

We do not offer a one-size-fits-all approach as we tailor every agreement to suit you the client. Cost is dependent upon number of vessels, size of your business, requirements and budget.  As our priority is and will always remains the safety and education in the marine industry, we are proud to ensure you have a Managed Services Agreement which meets all you need to ensure you’re compliant and safe. 

There will not be any ‘extra’s’ that you don’t need or want!

Payment Options – we offer two methods.  You can either pay a full year upfront with a 5% discount, or we offer a monthly fee arrangement.

Our terms are also flexible; you can take one year up to five-year agreement to lock in best pricing and avoid any price increases.

Managed Services Summary

A Managed Services Agreement with Shorlink provides the complete reassurance of compliance, maintenance, support and training, but also staying abreast of the latest changes in the industry including best practices. 

From a cost perspective, one of the clear benefits of managed services is that is lowers labour costs and eliminates the cost of hiring and training staff AND just may avoid an unnecessary hefty legal bill!


Shorlink’s Recommendation

There is absolutely no cost or obligation to you to seek a quotation for Managed Services with Shorlink.  What do you have to lose?

Contact our office or drop us a line and we will be in touch to arrange a quotation for your perusal.

As always, if you have any questions or issues, please never hesitate to contact our office.


Tip

Our best tip is getting protected.

Imagine if you or your vessel/crew were involved in an incident then balance the potential legal costs against our managed services fees and you’ll soon see the financial benefit.

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Shorlink Pty Ltd acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the Traditional Custodians of land, sea and sky, recognising their deep, enduring connection to these places. We pay our respects to Elders past and present who hold the knowledge, culture and spiritual connections to land, sky and waters and whose guidance continues to shape their sustainable, ethical and responsible care.
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