The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) has recently updated the Port Management (Local Ports) Regulations, which came into effect on 22 June 2025.  The regulations focus on safety, enhancing the environment and providing access for all.

Amongst the most significant changes, the updated regulations assist Gippsland Ports as a Local Port Manager to remove abandoned or derelict vessels more easily and quickly.

In addition, the Owner Onus System, already used in the Marine Safety Act 2010, will be expanded to Local Port Management Offences.  This will ensure that the owner of a vessel is accountable if the person in charge of the vessel cannot be identified.  The owner onus system will be used when required, and primarily to ensure compliance with berthing and mooring time limits at public facilities.

Other changes include clarifying access rules and enhancing environmental protection through improved waste water and sewage disposal requirements.

To view the updated Port Management Regulations, please visit Port Management (Local Ports) Regulations 2025 | legislation.vic.gov.au

Information on mooring time limits, Port and Waterway facilities and services can be found at Gippsland Ports Website – Gippsland Ports