This Act establishes a scheme to safeguard against unlawful interference with maritime transport.
Part 2 provides for maritime security levels. The security measures to be implemented when different maritime security levels are in force are set out in maritime security plans and ship security plans. Part 2 also provides for the Secretary to give security directions in special circumstances.
Part 3 deals with maritime security plans. Maritime industry participants who are required to have plans must comply with their plans.
Part 4 deals with ship security plans and ISSCs (International Ship Security Certificates). Regulated Australian ships must have both a ship security plan and an ISSC. These ships must be operated in compliance with their ship security plans and must continue to meet ISSC standards.
Part 5 puts obligations on regulated foreign ships. The Secretary can give control directions to regulated foreign ships to ensure that security standards are maintained.
Part 6 provides for the establishment of maritime security zones. Additional security requirements apply in these zones which can be established within ports, and on and around ships.
Part 7 deals with screening, weapons and prohibited items.
Part 8 sets out the powers of officials under this Act. These officials are maritime security inspectors, duly authorised officers, law enforcement officers, maritime security guards and screening officers.
Part 9 sets out reporting obligations in relation to certain maritime transport security incidents.
Part 10 allows the Secretary to require security compliance information from maritime industry participants.
Part 11 provides a range of enforcement mechanisms. These are infringement notices, enforcement orders, ship enforcement orders, injunctions and a demerit points system.
Part 12 provides for review of certain decisions by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
Part 13 deals with miscellaneous matters.