Security Measures
The Darwin Port Corporation is responsible for waterside security within the regulated port, extending from the Charles Point Patches & Lee Point Harbour Limits through to West Arm, Middle Arm, East Arm and Hudson Creek. Individual wharf operators are responsible for security within their own facilities.
The DPC have a Maritime Security Plan that has been approved by the Office of Transport Security (OTS). As part of our security regime we have introduced:
- A dedicated Control Tower at Fort Hill Wharf, which operates 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
- Security patrol services at East Arm Wharf, Fort Hill Wharf, Stokes Hill Wharf, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Francis Bay Mooring Basin.
- A closed-circuit television system, monitored 24 hours a day at both East Arm and Fort Hill Wharf’s.
- Signage that indicates the access restrictions to port facilities and other maritime security zones within the port.
Maritime Security Levels
There are three levels of maritime security that reflect the security situation at the port at any given time.
Level 1 (low) means that the port is operating normally and that the usual day-to-day protective security measures are in place.
Level 2 (medium) means that there is a heightened risk of a security incident occurring and that additional protective security measures will be maintained for a period of time. At this level, access to the port or certain port facilities may be restricted.
Level 3 (high) means that there is a probable or imminent risk of a security incident, and further and specific protective security measures will be maintained for a limited period of time. At this level, access to the port and port facilities will be heavily restricted, and will most likely trigger responses under the National Counter-Terrorism Plan.
Identity Cards
The ISPS Code and the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 require anyone entering a port facility to have photo identification. In December 2005 DOTARS (now OTS), implemented a Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) Scheme to ensure the industry has a consistent and secure identity process.
