Security

Since the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York, the attack on the oil tanker, Limburg, in Yemen, and the Bali bombings, concern about terrorism and global awareness of security have increased.

Security is essential in seaports where there is an international exchange of passengers and goods. World trade is dependent on maritime transport, and Australia’s maritime sector is integral to the nation’s economic well being, bringing over $180 billion annually into the economy.
Protecting the maritime industry from the threat of terrorism is a major international and national priority.

In response to the global maritime risk of terrorism, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the principal international maritime industry body, developed the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code in December 2002, and the Australian Government enacted the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 and associated regulations.

This legislation recognises the importance of detecting and deterring any unauthorised activity within security regulated ports, safeguarding against unlawful interference with maritime transport, and requires that port operators and ships have a Maritime Security Plan.

These plans outline the measures and procedures that port operators, port facility managers, and ships undertake to protect vessels that trade in Australian seaports.