Australian vessels

It is common for Australian registered vessels to ply waters beyond the 12 nautical mile limit as part of their daily activities or operations. Any vessel that exceeds this limit will be subject to quarantine under the Quarantine Act 1908 and must comply with AQIS requirements. These requirements may vary due to vessel type.

• Commercial Vessels
• Yachts

AQIS undertakes regulation of all vessels arriving in Australian ports or waters. These vessels may or may not, as part of their activities, come into contact with overseas ports, international vessels or installations. All vessel stores and waste are subject to Quarantine. If AQIS consider a vessel subject to Quarantine, Masters must decide if they wish the vessel to remain in international status or request a Release from Quarantine (Coastal stripping).

Australian vessels may include but not limited to:

• Commercial fishing vessels
• Australian Customs and Border Protection vessels
• Royal Australian Navy vessels
• Cargo carriers
• Commercial tugs
• Rig tenders
• Non commercial fishing vessels
• Tour and charter vessels
• Research vessels
• Privately owned yachts and cruisers
• Any Australian registered vessel

AQIS, as part of its commitment to the Australian Government, its people, the environment and Industry, undertake measures to control and limit the possibility of any pest or disease incursion.

Vessels, crew and passengers that have come into contact with any overseas ports, vessels or installations are subject to Quarantine. Ships Masters are required to submit a Quarantine Pre Arrival Report (QPAR) prior to arrival.

Private yachts and cruisers must contact Australian Customs and AQIS prior to arrival.

All vessels are also required to manage their ballast water with an AQIS approved method.

All disembarking crew and passengers will need to have their personal effects available for inspection by an AQIS officer prior to leaving the vessel.