Port and waterway management

A number of government departments and agencies share responsibility for our bays, rivers and ports.

We are the local port manager of Port Phillip and Western Port are responsible for:

• Making sure port operations are safe, efficient and effective
• Managing port infrastructure (e.g. piers, jetties, navigational aids, moorings and berths)
• Preparing and implementing Safety and Environment Management Plans

Any works within these local ports (e.g. marina, boat ramp or jetty construction or maintenance) must be authorised by Parks Victoria.

• How to apply for a works permit within the Local Ports (excluding rivers)
• How to apply for a works permit – Yarra River and Maribyrnong River

We manage the following waterways:

• The designated ports of Port Phillip and Western Port
• The Yarra, Maribyrnong and Patterson rivers
• Lake Moodemere, Albert Park Lake and ex-HMAS Canberra Reserve

In these areas we are responsible for managing and controlling vessel activities and maintaining navigation aids and signs.

Port Phillip and Western Port Safety and Environment Management Plan (PDF)

Safety and Environment Management Plan (SEMP) Annual Report 2022-23 - Port Phillip and Western Port (PDF)

Download the Port Phillip Recreational Boating Guide (PDF)

Download the Western Port Recreational Boating Guide (PDF)

Local Ports Update

Keep abreast of the latest news and information about the Port Phillip and Western Port local ports.

Share this newsletter with your members and stakeholders and help raise water and boating safety awareness.

Parks Victoria Local Ports Update – Edition 8 January 2024

Parks Victoria Local Ports Update - Edition 9 January 2025

Other agencies' responsibilities

Victorian Fishing Authority

• Aquaculture, recreational and commercial fisheries management and licensing
• Illegal fishing activity

Agriculture Victoria

• Aquatic pests and diseases

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)

• Illegal clearing of foreshore vegetation
• Harassment or cruelty to wildlife

Environmental Protection Agency

• Reporting fish deaths
• Litter from a car
• Marine pollution incident
• Pollution
• Smoky vehicle or vessel

Water Police

• Marine incidents or emergencies
• Harassment or cruelty to wildlife
• Assistance for vessel break downs

Safe Transport Victoria

• Recreational boat operator licences
• Recreational boat registrations