Restricted Use Flags
A Restricted Use Flag is a form of temporary registration issued for a specified period that allows restricted operating rights for vessels that would not otherwise be permitted to operate in Queensland's waters. Restricted Use Flags may be issued for a variety of reasons.
Operation of ships under a Restricted Use Flag
A Restricted Use Flag authorises the operation of a ship for purposes such as:
- a genuine trial, test or demonstration of the ship's seaworthiness, or some other operational aspect of the ship or its equipment
- a display purpose associated with the sale of the ship
- the building, disposing of, fitting out, relocating, removing or repair of the ship
- use of the ship as a commercial ship or fishing ship while the certificates and documents required for registration of the ship are being obtained, if the building of a ship has been completed
- maintaining the effectiveness and efficiency of the Queensland maritime industry.
Submit the
Restricted Use Flag application form with relevant documentation and fee to a
Maritime Safety Queensland regional office.
Operation of foreign flagged ships under a Restricted Use Flag
Occasionally, companies may need to operate foreign flagged ships within Queensland's waters for a short period of time. This is done by successfully applying for a Restricted Use Flag. Applicants are required to provide information on a range of matters including the safety of the vessel, the competence of the crew, insurance coverage and any union consultation that may have taken place in relation to the engagement of non-Australian labour.
Refer to the guideline (PDF, 61 KB) and the Restricted Use Flag application form – foreign flag ship (PDF, 100 KB) for further information on how to apply for a Restriced Use Flag.
Issuing a Restricted Use Flag
Maritime Safety Queensland will make a decision whether or not to issue Restricted Use Flag (RUF) within 30 days of receiving an application. However, usually a decision will be made:
- within five business days of receiving a straightforward application
- between 10 and 15 business days if the application is for a 'specified ship'.
For more information, contact a Maritime Safety Queensland regional office.
