Protection of the sea levy
We ask potential polluters to pay a levy to assist us to respond to any environmental incidents.
The protection of the sea levy
The levy is a charge against ships who have the potential to become polluters of the marine environment.
Who pays the levy
In addition, any other vessel of 24 metres or more in length carrying 10 tonne or more of oil on board at any time during a calendar quarter will also need to pay the protection of the sea levy.
This may include some fishing vessels which are exempt from the marine navigation levy and the marine navigation (regulatory functions) levy.
Vessels which enter ports to load fuel, provisions and water to complete a voyage, undertake crew changes or for repairs only do not pay the levy.
When to pay the levy
You must pay the levy at the same time you are required to pay the marine navigation levy and the marine navigation (regulatory functions) levy.
If you are exempt from paying the marine navigation levy and the marine navigation (regulatory functions) levy, you must pay the levy each quarter if you are a coastal vessel. Overseas vessels must pay upon arrival at an Australian port.
You will receive a receipt when you pay the levy and this receipt will be valid for three months.
The levy is calculated at 11.25 cents per net ton per quarter, with a minimum of A$10 per quarter. The levy is reviewed annually.
Funding clean up costs
The levy funds the National Plan for Maritime Environmental Emergencies and cleanup costs which cannot be attributed to a known polluter.