NSW Marine safety to be overhauled
The NSW Minister for Ports and Waterways, Joe Tripodi, has announced major reforms to marine safety lawsThe reforms include the introduction of new penalties for dangerous behaviour and a compulsory practical component for aspiring boat skippers.
They give NSW Maritime and Water Police officers new powers to direct skippers and enforce boating safety laws.
"This is the biggest overhaul of marine safety rules and practices in a decade," Tripodi said.
"New penalties, including jail terms and fines, will apply for dangerous navigation, overloading a vessel, endangering public safety and driving while disqualified.
"Boat licence requirements will be strengthened by requiring practical boating experience before a licence is issued and increasing penalties for operating a vessel while disqualified," said Tripodi.
"NSW Maritime night-time patrols will also increase, with blitzes on vessel lights.
"New powers will give NSW Maritime and Water Police the mandate to immediately suspend registration when vessels are found operating outside the law. This includes vessels operating at night with insufficient lighting," Tripodi said.
The Government said NSW Maritime will renew its focus on boating education, targeting lifejackets, skipper responsibility, offshore sailing training, boating near electrical crossings and behaviour in dangerous conditions such as crossing bars.
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