Safety and security
North Queensland Bulk Ports is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our employees, port users, tenants, contractor’s visitors and the general public.
The NQBP executive committee continues to review the effectiveness of, and provide valuable leadership in, health and safety management systems and processes, including active support for continuous improvement of systems and behaviours.
Across our ports, we have formal processes for the identification of hazards and the implementation of management controls for risks. All employees, port users, tenants, contractors, visitors and the general public are encouraged to report hazards and incidents to assist in maintaining the health and safety for everyone.
NQBP also provides the opportunity for all employees to consult on health and safety matters that impact on operational sites. Regular communication of these matters is maintained through a variety of mechanisms including pre-start, safety meetings and discussions, and circulars such as safety alerts. All employees have access to e-mail, intranet and internet to assist in sustaining the most up to date health and safety advice and information.
Applying for a Permit to Work
Whether you are undertaking work for a lessee organisation or NQBP, a Permit to Work is required before commencing work on our sites.
The Permit to Work system is an important tool that helps ensure NQBP is aware of what work is being conducted to maintain the safety of all Port Users.
There are two components to the Permit to Work.
- Details on the works used for planning, communicating and assessing and risks of works happening.
- Informing of any High Risk Work.
To apply for a Permit to Work please complete our form. Please note, paper versions are no longer accepted to streamline and enhance our application process.
For enquiries or further assistance, please contact us.
Port induction
Our induction program provides you with important information to keep you healthy and safe while working on our sites and to ensure that your actions cause minimal impact on the environment. All contractors working for or on behalf of our ports must undertake this Safety Online induction program once every two years.
The induction must be completed before a Port of Mackay Access Card can be issued.
Port security
We also place a high priority on ensuring our port facilities are secure. We work closely with government agencies, the maritime industry and port users to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place. There are three security threat assessment levels across Australia:
- Level 1 (normal): the level at which we will maintain minimum appropriate protective security measures
- Level 2 (heightened risk of a non-site-specific security threat): the level at which we will maintain appropriate additional protective security measures for a period of time as a result of the heightened risk of a security incident
- Level 3 (exceptional): the level at which we will maintain further specific protective security measures for a limited period of time when a security incident has occurred or is probable or imminent (although it may not be possible to identify the specific target).
We expect that Levels 2 and 3 would be rare, short-term events. The Federal Government will notify ports when it has raised the security level, based on intelligence advice.
Currently, all security-regulated NQBP ports are operating at Level 1.
Security compliance
NQBP ports that have trading links with countries throughout the world are security-regulated ports. Maritime security requirements come into force under the International Shipping and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. In Australia, the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 (MTOFSA) and its Regulations enact these requirements as legislation.
NQBP has Maritime Security Plans, approved by the Cyber Infrastructure Security Centre (CISC) of the Department of Home Affairs for each of its ports. Port facility operators and port service providers in these ports also have security plans approved by CISC. Some of the security requirements in these ports may restrict access to some areas of the ports that have been traditionally enjoyed by the public. These measures are designed to protect the community and people employed in the port area.
In addition, NQBP's Port of Hay Point is covered under the Security of Critical Infrastructure 2018 (SOCI) as recognised critical port infrastructure.
NQBP complies fully with the requirements of SOCI, MTOFSA and its Regulations. Port Security Committee meetings are held approximately every six months for each port to coordinate effective security measures across the whole port area.
Maritime Security Identification Card
Through legislation, Australia introduced a nationwide identification card for the port and maritime industry: the Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC). An MSIC is valid at any port in Australia, and every person entering a restricted zone must wear one.
The OTS recently reviewed Port Mackay’s maritime security plan and you no longer require an MSIC to enter the port at Security Level 1 (the current security level).
The port’s security gates will remain closed at all times and visitors still require access passes. We’ll grant access to Port Mackay only to people with an operational need to be there.
You can apply for an MSIC through the following organisations:
- Resource Industry Network (Mackay) or call 07 4952 4184
- Port of Brisbane or call 07 3258 4823
- ClientView; or call 1300 666 910
- 1-Stop Connections or call 1300 881 055.
Security advice by port
If the federal government declares a heightened or exceptional security level at any of our ports, we will put in place additional security measures on both land and sea around the port. Boat skippers operating in the port area need to always observe restricted areas on the water.
There are also specific issues to keep in mind at each port, as well as restricted access zones and other information. These are highlighted for each port below.
In the event of a heightened or exceptional security level being declared at the Port of Mackay, additional security measures will be put in place on both the land and sea. Boat skippers operating in the port area will need to be mindful to always observe restricted areas on the water.
Public access land-side
The Mackay Harbour area is surrounded by a security fence with gate access. Unauthorised public access is not allowed beyond these gates or the perimeter fence. At Security Level 1, access to the secured area may be granted to those having an ‘operational’ need to enter the area and following the issue of a port access card. At Security Levels 2 and 3, persons must at least be the holder of a Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC).
Public access water-side
There is no unauthorised access to the Mackay Port Water-side Restricted Zone (WRZ) at any security level.
View the restricted zones map for Port of Mackay.
Breaking port security zones
Breaking these restrictions would jeopardise the security and operation of the port, and anyone caught breaching the rules faces serious fines. All of the operators at the port and the enforcement agencies have been instructed to be on the lookout for breaches and will adopt a zero tolerance.
The Mackay port facilities are critical to the interests of Queensland and Australia and the security of these facilities will be enforced. Breaches of security access restrictions may bring fines of up to $5,000.
Community support
Apart from observing the access restrictions, the general public and boat owners are asked to be on the lookout for any suspicious behaviour. This should be reported to port and terminal authorities. These security measures have been implemented Australia-wide and NQBP, the Mackay Port operators, as well as the maritime industry generally, ask for your understanding and assistance in meeting our security obligations.
Contact information
For more information, or to report a concern, please contact:
- Port Security Officer: +61 7 4955 8174
- Deputy Port Security Officer: +61 7 4955 5107
In the event of a heightened or exceptional security level being declared at the Port of Weipa, additional security measures will be put in place on both the land and sea around the port. Boat skippers operating in the port area will need to be mindful to always observe restricted areas on the water.
Public access land-side
At the Lorim Point Wharf and Humbug Wharf, a new land-side restricted zone established under the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 will apply at all times around the facilities. Signs will be displayed advising the location of the zone.
The public’s existing use of the Evan’s Landing Wharf for fishing has been recognised and will not be affected. However, as occurs at present, when a fuel ship is at the Evan’s Landing Wharf, the wharf will be closed to the public.
At a heightened level of security, the wharf and jetty will be designated as a land-side restricted zone at these times, with any breach of the zone being an offence under the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Act 2003, with associated heavy penalties.
The continued public use of the boat ramp at Evan’s Landing Wharf will not be affected, unless there is a specific security threat related to the port or ship in the port. However, a water-side restricted zone around Evan’s Landing Wharf will apply at heightened levels of security.
Public access water-side
There are no security-restricted areas on the water under normal circumstances. However, mariners are advised that a ship safety exclusion zone extends 60 metres from the front, sides and from the rear to the shoreline of Lorim Point Wharf including the mooring dolphins, access jetty and any vessels berthed on Lorim Point Wharf. Vessels not involved in port operations, including recreational vessels are prohibited from entering the declared zone at all times.
If the port is put on heightened security (security levels 2 and 3), several water-side restricted zones will come into force. These zones are adjacent to the Lorim Point Wharf, Humbug Wharf and Evan’s Landing Wharf and extend for 60 metres from the face and sides of the wharves to restrict anyone approaching the wharves from the water.
The zones at Humbug Wharf and Evan’s Landing only apply when a ship is at the wharf. The zone at Lorim Point applies at all times while at a heightened level of security. At a security level 2, a water-side restricted zone applies around the Evan’s Landing Wharf whenever an international ship or fuel ship is at the wharf. The zones extend 60 metres out from the wharf into the river.
The boundaries of the zone have been selected to allow continued access to the boat ramp at these times, although boat owners will need to approach the wharf from downstream of the boat ramp when the zone is in place.
Boats or fishing vessels must not come into the restricted zone. The zone is not in force under normal conditions, but for safety reasons, boats must keep a safe distance from a fuel ship at the wharf and must not pass under mooring lines.
A sign will be erected at the boat ramp when at heightened levels of security to warn boat operators that the water-side restricted zones are in force.
View the restricted zones map for Port of Weipa.
Breaking port security zones
Breaches of port security zones would jeopardise the security and operation of the port and anyone caught breaching the rules faces heavy fines. Port and port facility staff have been instructed to be on the lookout for breaches and will adopt a zero tolerance.
Community support
Apart from observing the access restriction, the general public and boat owners are asked to be on the lookout for any suspicious behaviour in the port that may indicate a security threat. This should be reported to NQBP or port facility staff. Your cooperation would be appreciated. These security measures have been implemented Australia-wide and NQBP and the Port of Weipa facility operators, ask for your understanding and assistance in meeting our security obligations.
Contact information
For more information, or to report a concern, please contact:
- Port Security: +61 7 4069 7749 in the first instance (or +61 7 4955 8174 as back-up).
In the event of a heightened or exceptional security level being declared at the Port of Abbot Point, additional security measures will be put in place on both the land and sea around the port. Boat skippers operating in the port area will need to be mindful to always observe restricted areas on the water.
Public access land-side
The Adani Group operate Abbot Point Coal Terminal. Visitors need to contact Adani directly to request entry to this terminal.
Authorised persons may only enter the Abbot Point Coal Terminal via Abbot Point Road, which is a private road owned by NQBP. Visitors must first contact Adani, the owner of the terminal, to gain authorisation. Authorised visitors are then escorted to the Administration Office and provided with a visitor’s pass. Photo ID is required for proof of identity. Vehicles brought onto the site must also be authorised for entry.
If the port is put on heightened security level by the Federal Government, the jetty and off-shore wharf at the coal terminal will become a “land-side restricted zone” under the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003. This area will then be off limits to everyone except authorised personnel.
Anyone found breaching the zone will face heavy fines. Signs will be posted when the zone is in force. At heightened levels of security, Abbot Point Road, will be closed to the public with a security guard in attendance.
Only authorised personnel will be allowed to use the road. Neighbours of the terminal who currently use the road will continue to be conditionally allowed to use the road with authorisation from the terminal. Vehicles may be searched as a condition of use.
Public access water-side
If the port is put on heightened security (security levels 2 and 3), a water-side restricted zone, which is 60 metres from all sides of the offshore wharf/berth, will come into force. The declaration of the zoning will be advertised and a Notice to Mariners will be issued.
View the restricted zones map for Port of Abbot Point.
Breaking port security zones
Breaches of port security zones would jeopardise the security and operation of the port and anyone caught breaching the rules faces heavy fines.
Port and coal terminal staff have been instructed to be on the lookout for breaches and will adopt a zero tolerance.
Community support
Apart from observing the access restriction, the general public and boat owners are asked to be on the lookout for any suspicious behaviour in the port that may indicate a security threat. This should be reported to NQBP or Abbot Point Bulkcoal Pty Ltd staff. Your cooperation would be appreciated. These security measures have been implemented Australia-wide and NQBP and Abbot Point Bulkcoal Pty Ltd ask for your understanding and assistance in meeting our security obligations.
Contact information
For more information, or to report a concern, please contact:
- Port Security: +61 7 4786 0332 in the first instance (or +61 7 4955 8174).
To contact the Adani Group:
- Brisbane Office: +61 7 3223 4800
- Townsville Regional Headquarters: +61 7 3223 4810
In the event of a heightened or exceptional security level being declared at the Port of Hay Point, additional security measures will be put in place on both the land and sea around the port. Boat skippers operating in the port area will need to be mindful to always observe restricted areas on the water.
Public access land-side
Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, Hay Point Services Terminal and the Half Tide Tug Harbour all have security gates. No unauthorised public access is allowed beyond these gates or the perimeter fences. Also, please note that access to the rock walls beyond the tug harbour gate is not allowed at any security level. Access to the viewing area under the NQBP building at the top of Horyu Maru Drive may be restricted at heightened security levels.
Public access water-side
Half Tide Boat Ramp
Under normal circumstances, there will be no restriction on the boat ramp. Restrictions may apply at Level 2 based on the threat and at Level 3 it would most likely be closed.
Half Tide Tug Harbour (Tug Enclosure)
No access to the waters inside the tug enclosure exists at any level for any unauthorised vessel. Signs have been posted identifying the restricted area (see water-side restricted zone on map over the page).
Coal Terminal Jetties and Wharves
Unauthorised vessels are currently not allowed to pass under, or moor under, either the coal terminal jetty or wharf structures at Hay Point, staying 50 metres clear of the structures. This has been the case for some time and was originally prompted by the safety concerns of the terminals. This restriction remains and will be enforced.
At security levels 2 and 3, new security provisions will be activated around the facilities and unauthorised vessels will have to stay at least 60 metres clear of the wharves. Signs will be posted at the boat ramp when this security level comes into force.
View the restricted zones map for Port of Hay Point.
Breaking port security zones
Breaches of port security zones would jeopardise the security and operation of the port, and anyone caught breaching the rules faces serious fines. All of the operators at the port and the enforcement agencies have been instructed to be on the lookout for breaches and will adopt a zero tolerance. The Hay Point port facilities are critical to the interests of Queensland and Australia and the security of these facilities will be enforced. Breaches of security access restrictions may bring fines of up to $5,000
Community support
Apart from observing the access restrictions, the general public and boat owners are asked to be on the lookout for any suspicious behaviour. This should be reported to port and terminal authorities. Your co-operation would be much valued. These security measures have been implemented Australia-wide and NQBP, the Hay Point operators, as well as the maritime industry generally, ask for your understanding and assistance in meeting our security obligations.
Contact information
For more information, please contact:
- Port Security: +61 7 4943 5209 in the first instance (or +61 7 4955 8174 as back-up).
Regional Council Disaster Dashboards
The Mackay and Whitsunday councils and Weipa Town Authority all host their own disaster dashboards, which may also be useful resources in the event of an emergency throughout these regions.
These dashboards have been designed for the community to access information about power outages, network outages, road closures, weather warnings, dams levels and so on.
It also includes community resources such as an emergency action guide and suggestions to help community members to prepare for an emergency.