Port pilot safety move

The Newman Government today introduced changes to legislation that will improve the delivery of ship pilotage services and maintain the state’s high safety standards.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said pilotage services were currently provided by Maritime Safety Queensland based in Brisbane.

“Changes as part of this Bill will mean that, from November, pilotage services will be transferred to individual government-owned port corporations,” Mr Emerson said.

“Ports will then have greater flexibility to make on-the-spot decisions that are safe for industry and the environment without waiting for advice to come from Brisbane.

“We are committed to improving efficiencies to ensure our ports meet the demands of increased shipping volumes and vessel movements.

“This move will improve efficiencies and ensure MSQ focuses on its core responsibility of maintaining standards and regulation of the port pilotage function.

“Across Queensland there are 69 marine pilots and under the proposed legislation all will remain in their current positions with no changes to their conditions.

“During the transition process the State Government will retain responsibility for pricing, ensuring the same level of service delivery.”

It is compulsory for all ships over 50 metres to take on a pilot (an experienced ship’s master with higher local knowledge) when entering and leaving Queensland ports.

Gladstone Ports Corporation, Far North Queensland Ports Corporation, Port of Townsville and North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation will take control of ship pilotage services.

Together they will manage the provision of marine pilots for vessels operating in 16 compulsory pilotage areas.

MSQ will retain responsibility for pilotage in Brisbane, Southport and Abbot Point due to the potential for future growth.

The amendment Bill formally transferring legal responsibility for port pilotage was introduced into Parliament today.

Media Contact: Andrew Berkman 0429 128 637