Boating rules in Australia are set by each state and territory. Most require a licence to drive a powered recreational boat and registration for powered vessels, with separate rules for jet skis, safety equipment, speed limits and local waterways. Use this guide as a starting point and confirm current requirements with the relevant maritime authority before you buy or head out.
Recreational boating in NSW is managed by Transport for NSW (NSW Maritime). A boat driving licence is required to operate a powered recreational vessel above set speed thresholds, and most powered vessels must be registered. A separate personal watercraft (PWC) licence applies to jet skis. Speed limits, no-wash zones and lifejacket rules apply on many waterways, including Sydney Harbour.
Marine licences in Victoria are managed by Transport Safety Victoria (Maritime Safety Victoria), with recreational vessel registration handled through VicRoads. A marine licence is required to operate a powered recreational vessel, with a PWC endorsement for jet skis. Local rules apply on Port Phillip, Western Port, the Gippsland Lakes and inland waters.
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) administers recreational boating. A recreational marine driver licence is required for motorised vessels above a set engine power, and registration applies to most powered recreational boats. A PWC licence is required for jet skis. Safety equipment requirements vary between smooth, partially smooth and open waters.
The Department of Transport WA manages recreational boating. A Recreational Skipper's Ticket is required to operate a powered recreational vessel above a set engine power, and most powered boats must be registered. Rules apply on the Swan and Canning rivers, Rottnest and other boating areas, including speed and ski zones.
Recreational boating in South Australia is administered by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport. A boat operator's licence is required for powered recreational vessels, and powered boats must be registered. The River Murray has its own rules for houseboats, speed and mooring.
Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) manages recreational boating. A motor boat licence is required to operate powered recreational vessels above a set engine power, and registration applies to most powered boats. Conditions on the Derwent, Tamar and open waters can change quickly, and MAST sets safety equipment requirements by boat type and area.
The ACT has limited navigable waterways, and powered boating on Lake Burley Griffin is restricted. Most ACT boat owners use NSW waterways such as the South Coast and Lake Burrinjuck, where NSW licence and registration rules apply. Check Access Canberra for ACT-specific rules.
Marine safety in the Northern Territory is managed by NT Marine Safety. Licensing and registration requirements for recreational vessels in the NT differ from other states, but safety equipment rules still apply. Crocodile safety, tides and remote conditions in the Top End are major considerations.