Periodic survey (existing vessels)

The Department for Planning and Infrastructure liaises with industry to arrange survey of vessels in, and around, the Perth Metropolitan and Geraldton regions. The Department also liaises with the industry throughout the rest of the State to determine an acceptable timetable of surveys for those vessels. The resulting timetable accommodates the seasonal nature of the various marine industries.

This arrangement attempts to ensure that every operational commercial vessel in Western Australia is checked with minimal disruption and inconvenience to the industry. Staff of the Periodical Survey Section inspect all existing commercial vessels:

• Every year, for compliance of safety equipment, radio equipment, machinery and engineering, systems and navigational equipment;
   
• Every two years, the vessel hull, for which the vessel is removed from the water and inspected internally and externally; and
   
• Every four years, when the propulsion shafting and supporting machinery are inspected.

It should be noted that at every above inspection, the opportunity is taken to conduct a general inspection of the vessel, and any deficiencies requiring repair, replacement or action are drawn to the attention of the owner.

Permits as defined by the WA Marine Act and its regulations, are also processed by DPI. In addition to applications for special purpose permits, the DPI also process applications for the modification, change, or addition of a class to a vessel.

The following forms are available online:

• Application for the modification, change or addition of a class to a vessel;
   
• Application for a Permit to Operate,
   
• Application for an Exemption to allow Operation as a Private Pleasure  Vessel,
   
• Application for a Permit to Tow, and
   
• Application for Dispensation for Crewing Qualification Requirement

View forms.