Media release
15 November 2019
New rule for personal watercraft on Port Phillip Bay
Maritime Safety Victoria (MSV) will shortly introduce a new waterway rule restricting ‘irregular’ riding of personal watercraft (PWC) in Port Phillip Bay 5-knot speed restricted zones to reduce safety risks for other waterway users.
As of 16 December 2019, operators of PWCs (commonly known as jet skis) will be required to:
“Following an extensive public consultation process and having considered the significant feedback and comments received, I have taken the decision to implement this new rule. There was overwhelming support for the new rule with 67 per cent of respondents supporting it,” said MSV Acting Director Cameron Toy.
PWC operators found in breach of this rule may receive a $330 infringement notice.
“The new rule will require PWC operators to operate their craft in a predictable manner, which will provide greater certainty to other waterway users on the path they intend to take. The rule prohibits the ‘irregular riding’ of PWCs in five-knot speed restricted zones around Port Phillip, to address the risk of incidents involving PWCs and other beach users,” said Mr Toy.
Irregular riding is defined as operating a PWC in an irregular or erratic manner, including:
“This rule brings waters around Port Phillip Bay in line with other jurisdictions, such as New South Wales, and will simplify compliance activities undertaken by MSV, Victoria Police, Parks Victoria and appointed Local Government Authorities.”
“MSV is committed to ensuring that everyone, including boaters, jet skiers, fishers and swimmers, can enjoy a safe day on the water,” said Mr Toy.
Learn about PWC rules and safety: transportsafety.vic.gov.au/msv/pwc
Communications team
Maritime Safety Victoria
A branch of Transport Safety Victoria
E info@transportsafety.vic.gov.au
T 1800 223 022
PO Box 2797, Melbourne, Victoria 3001
transportsafety.vic.gov.au/msv