Replacing Maps of Security Zones

Since Australia's maritime security regime was introduced there have been a number of incidents of unlawful entry into maritime security zones. In some cases these have led to prosecutions being undertaken by State or Commonwealth authorities. Experience gained in relation to administering and enforcing the MTOFSA during this period has shown that there is some merit in shoring up the statutory elements relating to the establishment of maritime security zones.

These elements include:

• The Port Operator receiving written notice from the Secretary (or delegate) establishing each proposed security zone.
• Industry participant's who controls an area within an established security zone receiving written notice of the security zone's establishment.
• A map showing the boundary of each proposed security zone accompanying each notice.

The last point has required the Department to request some security zone maps to either be updated or replaced.

To assist with the mapping of maritime security zones, guidance material has been prepared titled:

• Producing Maps for Maritime Security Plans [PDF: 201 KB ]

The guidance paper 'Guidelines for Describing Maritime Security Zones' is being revised and will be published shortly. In the interim, if you require further assistance, please contact your local OTS State Office.

How to replace your maritime security zone maps

Updated maps can be submitted by lodging them with the Department as Maritime Security Plan (MSP) Variations or Revisions. This will enable the Department to officially replace the less suitable map with the updated version.

Please note that if the only change to your original map is that we have asked for a coloured version, this will not trigger a MSP Variation or Revision to be lodged under sections 53 or 54 of the Act. Coloured map replacements can be sent directly to transport.security@infrastructure.gov.au

Guidance on requesting variations and revisions , and sample request forms are available for your assistance.

If changes are made to security zone boundaries that alter the size, shape and scope of original security zone, be aware that such changes may affect the security outcome of your MSP. Mapping changes need to comply with the security measures identified in the Security Risk Assessment provided by you with your MSP.

Also be aware that where changes are made, your MSP may need to be revised to reflect these changes. You will also need to change the description of the security zone in the Maritime Security Zone section of your MSP. Following the receipt of replaced maps, the Department will then be able to progress the re-establishment of your maritime security zone/s.

All requests are to be lodged with:

Office of Transport Security Coordination Centre
email: transport.security@infrastructure.gov.au
Fax: 02 6274 6089