Federal inspectors boarded a Carnival cruise ship in Darwin, Australia this week following up a whistleblower’s report of mistreatment of crew members.
The report was passed to the Maritime Union of Australia, which informed the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
The report alleged cases of skin disease, crew members forced to report for work while sick and unsafe drinking water.
Inspectors boarded the Carnival Encounter.
Union official Andy Burford, said the union is working with inspectors to uncover any potential violations.
“This this is exactly what happens when you allow foreign owned and controlled companies to sail the Australian coast and use Australian ports but who are completely immune from Australian law,” he said.
“Carnival is bringing in workers from some of the poorest economies on earth, paying them as little as $2.50 an hour.”
The cruise company says it has ‘nothing to hide.’
“AMSA’s inspection found no follow‑up action is required. AMSA routinely conducts robust inspections as part of its responsibility to ensure strict adherence with international crew welfare requirements.”
