The Australian Government has implemented a maritime security regime to help safeguard Australia’s maritime transport system and offshore facilities from terrorism and unlawful interference. Under this regime all security regulated ports, port facilities, offshore facilities, port and offshore service providers and ships (collectively, maritime industry participants) undertake security risk assessments and implement security plans to address identified risks. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • measures that need to be in place at different security levels
  • the powers and responsibilities of officials
  • reporting incidents and events
  • screening and clearing, weapons and prohibited items
  • the Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) Scheme, and
  • enforcement of the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 and Regulations.

Following 11 September 2001, the international community implemented a system to secure the maritime transport sector against the threat of terrorism. The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) by December 2002, was the result.

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The Australian Government developed the Maritime Transport Security Act 2003 to implement the ISPS Code in Australia. Both the ISPS Code and the Act came into effect on 1 July 2004.

In 2005 the Act was extended and renamed the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 (MTOFSA). The amended Act, and Regulations under it, establishes the legislative basis for also approving security plans for offshore oil and gas facilities.

International developments and a number of reviews have led to changes and refinements in the legislation underpinning the maritime security regime.

This site contains links to international and Australian legislation and regulations, and the range of guidance and tools that have been prepared to assist maritime industry participants with meeting their responsibilities and obligations under the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 and Regulations. This includes links to information on the Maritime Security Identification Card Scheme and the competencies required for maritime security guards and maritime security screening officers.

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Diamond Protection Pty Ltd (Diamond) is a leading provider of security, emergency and training services. Established in 1995, this Australian owned and operated company is committed to leading the way – to be the standard of excellence. Diamond operates an internationally certified Integrated Management System (IMS) incorporating ISO accreditation for Quality (ISO 9001:2008), Occupational Health & Safety (AS/NZS 4801 & OHSAS18001:2007) and Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2004) Systems. The company has placed significant importance in continual improvement and commitment to the community and environment.

Diamond works closely with clients throughout Australia and beyond to provide security audits, security guards / officers, patrols, risk management, emergency service officers, safety officers, life support and nationally recognised training courses in partnership with Australian government and private Registered Training Organisations.

Visit our website at www.diamondprotection.com, call our team on 1300 669 155 or email: info@diamondprotection.com to outline your specific requirements.