Navigational safety measures in place at Cliff Head facility
NOPSEMA has recently installed warning signage at local boat ramps and coastal access points used by recreational and commercial water users. Additionally, contractors have deployed illuminated marker buoys around the Cliff Head facility today, Thursday 13 August 2026.
The facility's permanent lighting is temporarily not operational. To assist mariners, NOPSEMA has arranged for the buoys to be deployed around the facility to help identify its location and extent from the water, particularly at night and during periods of reduced visibility.
The navigational aids complement information already available to mariners through notices and navigational safety information issued by relevant maritime authorities. This information provides up-to-date advice about the facility's status and location and should be reviewed as part of voyage planning and safe navigation practices.
The signs inform mariners of the change in arrangements near the Cliff Head platform. The signs also provide information about the platform's location and remind water users of the restrictions that apply within the Petroleum Safety Zone surrounding the facility.
A 500-metre Petroleum Safety Zone is in place around the Cliff Head facility under Commonwealth legislation, the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006. The safety zone exists to protect people, infrastructure and the marine environment by reducing the risk of vessel interactions with offshore petroleum infrastructure. It is an offence for a vessel to enter a safety zone without prior approval from NOPSEMA.
Mariners are reminded not to enter the safety zone and to remain clear of the facility at all times. Operators of recreational vessels, fishing vessels and other marine craft should continue to navigate safely and maintain awareness of the facility's location when operating in the area.
Members of the public and marine users seeking information about the Cliff Head facility should refer to navigational safety information issued by maritime authorities and observe all warning signage installed at local launch locations and coastal access points.
The installation of lit navigational aids and public signage helps ensure mariners have visual warnings in place in low light conditions and access to clear information about the facility while longer-term arrangements are progressed.
Images: Supplied
