Are you an experienced boat owner or you have just picked up your first boat?
If so, you will need to ensure that your motorised boat is registered correctly in your state. If you’re unsure of the registration process for your state, you’re not alone. Every state in Australia has specific laws when it comes to the registration of motorised boats.
The registration process is generally straightforward, but it’s easy to be a little unsure of where to start. If you need a bit of help figuring out your state’s laws and how to go about registering your motorised boat, we can help.
Queensland
In Queensland, any boats including Personal Watercraft (PWC) with an engine of at least 3kW must be registered if you plan on taking them on the water. A boat that is being used for private recreational purposes must be registered as a recreational vessel.
Boats that are used for other purposes will need to have a commercial registration. This can include community activities, surf lifesaving or school activities. These boats may be exempt from fees.
When registering your boat you must ensure you have the following:
– A purchase receipt for the boat (or evidence of its origin)
– A completed Queensland regulated ship registration form
– ID of some form
– The application registration fee costs
Related Reading: 5 Gold Coast Boating Spots for Families
Boat Registration Guide Queensland Government
New South Wales
In NSW any power-driven boat with an engine power rating of at least 4kW must be registered. NSW also requires that any PWC, power-driven or sailing vessel of at least 5.5m must be registered. This is also accurate for any vessel that is subject to a mooring licence. These registrations are granted on an annual basis.
New South Wales requires the following when registering a boat:
– A completed application for vehicle registration form
– Proof of identity
– Proof of vehicle ownership
– HIN (boatcode) certificate
– Vehicle registration fee payment
Boat Registration NSW Government Website
Western Australia
Any recreational vessels that are or can be propelled by mechanical power must be registered with the Department of Transport. This can include electric motors and boats that are normally propelled by sail.
Keep in mind that any boats that are on moorings, berths or jetty’s must also be registered. Registration is mandatory regardless of how often they are used.
Your application must include the following:
– A new boat registration form
– Hull Identification Number certificate
– Proof of ownership or acquisition
– Proof of identity
Related: Winter Boating in Western Australia
South Australia
All newly acquired motorboats must be registered in South Australia within 14 days. Any boats that are registered outside of SA will have a 3-month grace period. After 90-days they will be required to be registered in SA. Registering your boat is a fairly straightforward process. Simply submit your forms and fee payment at any Services SA centre.
Make sure you have the following when submitting your application:
– Proof of boat ownership
– Payment for registration fee and facilities levy – these fees will depend upon the length of your boat
– A completed application form
– Proof of identity
Victoria
In Victoria, you must register any boat or vessel that is capable of using an engine for propulsion. This includes boats or personal watercraft (PWC).
The registered boat must be considered seaworthy. It is also required to have the registration renewed on an annual basis. You must display the registration label and identification number on a clearly visible upper portion of your boat.
Ensure you have the following when submitting your application in Victoria:
– Vessel (boat and PWC) registration form
– Registration fee payment
– Evidence of identity
You can submit an application online or attend an appointment at VicRoads Customer Service Centre.
Tasmania
In Tasmania, any recreational motorboat or PWC with a motor of at least 4hp must be registered. If your motorboat is registered in another state, it will not require a Tasmanian registration until the vessel has been in Tasmanian waters for at least 3-months.
When registering your vehicle, ensure you have the following:
– A completed registration form from MAST or Service Tasmania
– Evidence of identity
– Proof of ownership
– Registration fee payment
Only individuals who are at least 16 years old will be able to apply for boat registration in Tasmania.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is a little different to the other states around Australia. In the NT you do not have to register your motorboat. You also are not required to hold a licence to operate a recreational boat.
You are, however, you are expected to know and follow the relevant boat laws when in the NT. You are also required to follow the minimum expected requirement in regards to safety equipment.
Failure to do so could result in prosecution. It is recommended that you read the Safety Guide for Recreational Boating carefully. Always be aware of what is expected of you when you do go out on the water.
Australian Capital Territory
Similar to the Northern Territory, the ACT does not have a boat licence or registration scheme that you must adhere to.
Powered boats that are operated on any ACT lake are required to be registered with any state or territory. Users are then required to follow the rules and restrictions of the relevant state while in the ACT. If any ACT residents wish to register a boat they need to contact the relevant authorities in another state ie QLD or NSW.
Owning and operating a boat is a great way to spend some time on the water.
You get to experience everything our beautiful country has to offer, spend a day fishing or take a day to swim and adventure. You just need to get your paperwork sorted before you head out onto the water.
Knowing what the laws are will be a great way to get off to a good start. While every state is going to have different laws when it comes to boat registrations, knowing what the registration process requires is important. Staying up to date on relevant laws and safety procedures will ensure that you have a boat that ticks all the right boxes.
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How To Get A Boat License in Australia
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