In an effort to increase enforcement of MARPOL and reduce deliberate oil discharges into the sea, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has increased penalties and fines for offences of this nature. In addition, following a recent court case involving a ship borne pollution incident, AMSA has now made it clear that the defence of 'accidental pollution' resulting from worn or deteriorated equipment will no longer be accepted. AMSA is working closely with the Australian Federal Police to prosecute deliberate efforts to by-pass machinery space oily water separators in an effort to discharge this waste directly overboard. AMSA's PSC inspectors will now have the power to detain a ship if they suspect that the oily water separator is being improperly used.