Fixed speed limits
Maritime Safety Queensland can introduce, revise, or remove fixed speed limits in Queensland. These can be permanent restrictions or set for a temporary period (for example while construction is completed in the area).
There is a range of reasons for doing this, including complaints by members of the public or community groups about high speeds, requests from local governments and councils, or feedback from our enforcement partners.
We can also make our own assessment when other regulations are not working to maintain safe speeds, or “distance-off” restrictions are proving difficult to gauge and enforce. In these cases, it can make sense to restrict speed in a particular area to remove doubt and promote safety.
Maritime Safety Queensland review of new fixed speed limits
We can consider proposals to introduce or revise a fixed speed limit. The local regional office will review whether it is the best course of action and first rule out other options for addressing the issues at hand, such as with local education programs, safety workshops, or contacting individual operators in relation to their boating behaviour.
We will also often consult with the local community before making a final decision.
If you wish to discuss a speed limit in your area, please contact your nearest Maritime Safety Queensland regional office
Speed limit consultations
For permanent changes to an established fixed speed limit, we will set up a consultation survey to gather views on the proposal. These can be filled out online, downloaded and returned via email or post, or completed in the regional office where the proposal is being reviewed.
Consultations are open for 28 days and the feedback received will be used to consider whether a revised speed limit is the most appropriate action for the waterway in question and its users. Our overriding consideration is always for the safety of the boating community, and their families.
Temporary fixed speed limits will not be consulted on as they are for a defined period, which will be communicated in advance. If it is proposed to turn a temporary speed limit into a permanent one, consultation would take place as part of a fresh review.
Current consultations
Please see below a list of live consultations for proposed new speed limits: