Swing mooring maintenance and inspections
Inspections reports are an important licensee obligation required by law to ensure the mooring is safe and fit for purpose for the vessel that occupies it.
Approved contractors, conducting inspections on behalf of DoT swing mooring licensees, must be engaged to complete an inspection report:
- when installed;
- every 2 years from the date of the last inspection report; and
- any time as requested by DoT to assist with mooring management.
Inspection reports are a condition of licence and an obligation of the licensee. It is the licensee’s responsibility to ensure we receive the inspection report by email to maritime.licensing@transport.wa.gov.au before the due date. Vessels must not be moored on a swing mooring if an inspection report has not been received or processed.
Swing mooring general maintenance
To maintain your mooring:
- Clean it regularly by removing marine growth and debris from the apparatus. This will help to identify the mooring and can prolong the life of the apparatus.
- Ensure the DoT number is always clearly displayed on the mooring buoy. This will help you find the correct mooring and prevent unauthorised use.
- Check for cracks and wear and tear and make sure your lines are the suitable length for securing the vessel appropriately. If in doubt about the requirements, call an approved contractor for further advice.
Swing mooring buoy with excess growth
Excess growth on swing mooring buoy contributes to poor buoyancy and becomes a hazard to other water way users and is non-compliant with Swing Mooring Regulations.
Clean buoy
Clean buoy with good buoyancy providing a secure storage solution for vessel, compliant with Swing Mooring Regulations.
Undertaking inspections
DoT inspections: Approved Contractors that undertake DoT Mooring Inspections must use the forms listed below.
DBCA inspections: For Approve Contractors undertaking inspections and maintenance on behalf of DBCA Licensees, please complete the DBCA inspection report form.
Approved mooring contractors
Mooring contractors on the approved mooring contractors list provide services to both DoT and DBCA swing mooring licensees Statewide. These contractors are recognised as being registered businesses that:
- carry adequate liability, indemnity and property insurance;
- are compliant with commercial vessel survey manning and safety standards; and
- adhere to commercial diving standards while undertaking their duties.
Designs, systems of work and works carried out by contractors are solely the responsibility of the contractor and cannot be approved or endorsed by the Department.
Please ensure due diligence and consumer discretion when choosing your contractor.
Please discuss insurance liability with your chosen mooring contractor. The mooring owner is responsible for mooring buoy replacement and/or any loss or damage that may be caused.
Moorings and biosecurity
Moorings and mooring components pose a biosecurity risk to Western Australia's aquatic environment, as they can be a stepping stone for invasive marine species (IMS) to reach new locations where they do not naturally occur.
Follow these 2 simple steps to prevent the spread of aquatic pests:
- Regularly check your mooring and mooring components for any unusual species.
- Report any unusual species found by contacting FishWatch on 1800 815 507, or through the free WA PestWatch app, which can be downloaded from the App Store and Google play store.
Further information visit:
- Aquatic pests and diseases, visit Department of Fisheries - Aquatic biosecurity.
- Biofouling and ballast water, refer to WA marine pest management guidelines.