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Port Security

Along with other major infrastructure operations, ports around the world have a heightened sense of security awareness.

Sydney Ports has always taken port security and safety seriously. With 99 per cent of Australias international trade transported by sea, Sydneys ports are pivotal to Australias economic future, contributing more than $2.5 billion to the NSW economy annually and generating more than 17,000 jobs.

In response to the risk of terrorism, the Commonwealth Government has interpreted the International Ship and Port Facility and Security (ISPS) Code, through its introduction of the Maritime Transport And Offshore Facilities Security Act (MTOFSA) and Offshore Facilities Security Regulation 2003. In June 2004, the Commonwealth Department of Transport and Regional Services (DoTARS) approved Sydney Ports maritime security plans for Sydney Harbour and Botany Bay, compliant with MTOFSA and the ISPS Code.

In addition to Sydney Ports maritime security plans, foreign and Australian trading vessels, many port facilities and port service providers also have maritime security plans.

In Port Botany, the facilities that are required to have maritime security plans under the MTOFSA within the security regulated port are the DP World and Patrick container terminals, Caltex Kurnell jetty and berths and the Bulk Liquids Berth managed by Sydney Ports.

In the port of Sydney Harbour, facilities that are required to have maritime security plans under the MTOFSA are Darling Harbour cargo berths 3 to 7, AAT Car Terminal at Glebe Island, the two cruise vessel terminals No.8 Darling Harbour and the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, Glebe Island 7/8 bulk materials facilities, White Bay berths 1 to 6 and Shell Gore Cove.

Increased security measures include establishing forums for information sharing between Government Agencies and regulated port users; new and upgraded fencing and gates; restricted access to sensitive areas; background checking of port workers through the introduction of the Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC); signage; increased closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance; perimeter patrols; and increased monitoring of port precincts, particularly the waterside.

To download the Sydney Ports Port Security Advice, which explains the Water-side restricted zones established in both ports, visit the Publication section of this website.  Please note an additional Water-side restricted zone has been established at Darling Harbour Number 3 Berth for specified vessel activities.

Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC)

The Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) was made compulsory on 1 January 2007. All personnel working in any port in NSW must have an MSIC displayed at all times, demonstrating that the holder is cleared to enter and work in maritime security zones.

For more detailed information on using the ports of Sydney please refer to the Port Procedures Guide, the complete guide to using the ports of Sydney Harbour and Botany Bay.

For more information regarding Sydney Ports security please contact our Security Manager on +61 2 9296 4999 or email security.enquiries@sydneyports.com.au.