Vessel Traffic Services

Port Hedland Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) is authorised as a VTS Provider in accordance with the provisions of Marine Order 64 (Vessel Traffic Services) 2022 (MO64).

Purpose of Vessel Traffic Services

The purpose of VTS is to contribute to the safety of life at sea, improve the safety and efficiency of navigation and support the protection of the environment within a VTS area by mitigating the development of unsafe situations through:

1. Providing timely and relevant information on factors that may influence vessel movements and assist onboard decision-making.
2. Monitoring and managing vessel traffic to ensure the safety and efficiency of vessel movements.
3. Responding to developing unsafe situations.

VTS coverage area

Port of Port Hedland VTS Coverage Area Map

Participation of vessels

It is mandatory for all vessels with an overall length greater than 35m, and commercial vessels of any size, to participate in the VTS when operating within the VTS coverage area. 

Port Hedland VTS may request any other vessel entering the VTS coverage area to participate in the reporting requirements.

In a VTS area, participating vessels should:

1. Provide reports or information required by VTS;
2. Take into account the information, advice and warnings issued by VTS;
3. Comply with the requirements and instructions given to the vessel by VTS, unless contradictory safety or marine environment protection reasons exist; and
4. Report any pollution or dangers to navigation to VTS.

Vessels not designated as participating vessels may take part in VTS, subject to complying with the requirements any guidance issued.

Masters may be required to report on their actions should they decide to disregard any instruction given by VTS.