Registration of VesselsThe following vessels must be registered with NSW Maritime when they are on navigable waters in NSW:
Exemptions from this requirement include:
Application for RegistrationApplication forms for initial registration are available at any NSW Maritime operations centre. When applying for registration, you must provide the following:
An acceptable receipt must include the following details:
If the receipt/ bill of sale does not include the essential requirements another receipt or Statutory Declaration must be provided detailing the required information. TransferWhen selling a vessel the registered controller must complete and forward the Notice of Disposal to NSW Maritime. The registered controller must also sign the reverse side of the registration certificate and give it, together with an acceptable receipt to the buyer for transfer purposes. The buyer has 21 days to complete the transfer otherwise a late fee will be charged. The buyer must also provide proof of identity and a Boatcode (HIN) certificate (if applicable). Personalised Vessel RegistrationPersonalised vessel registrations can be applied for at any NSW Maritime operations centre. Subject to availability they may be any combination of up to six alpha/numeric characters (which are not offensive) and must always be followed by the letter "N". An additional fee applies. Registration NumbersMechanically propelled vessels must show registration numbers on each side of the vessel at least 150mm high and clearly visible while underway. They should be located on the forward section of the vessel's hull on each side of the vessel. Sailing vessels must show registration numbers on the transom or on both sides of the hull adjacent to the stern. In the case of multi hull craft, the numbers must be on the outer faces of the external hulls adjacent to the stern. The figures must be at least 100mm high and be visible when the vessel is underway. Note: For registration purposes, a "sailing vessel" means a vessel which has sails as its primary means of propulsion. PWC must have registration numbers on each side of the craft in figures of at least 100mm high, where they are clearly visible when the vessel is underway./p> Commercial vessels must display a permit number or commercial registration number. The number must be displayed on each side of the hull or on the transom in figures at least 150mm high. Registration numbers must be clearly visible at a distance of 60m. Display of Registration NumbersThe numbers should be of contrasting colours to the boat's hull. Black numbers are standard on a light coloured hull, but on a dark coloured hull you should use white or pale figures. Capacity Stickers
The capacity is normally calculated by the manufacturer and is often shown on a special plate attached to the hull. Alternatively, a sticker issued by NSW Maritime will indicate the appropriate number of passengers. This capacity is the maximum number for good conditions. A reduction in the maximum number must be made in adverse weather conditions or when on open waters. If not, the master may be guilty of negligent navigation. In determining whether your vessel complies with the capacity limits, the following applies:
Australian Builders Plate
If you are buying a new boat, the plate also makes it easier to choose one that best suits your needs. Importantly, the maximum load information will help you to avoid overloading and possible capsize. Maximum load includes the weight of people; outboard engines; and carry on equipment such as safety gear, eskies, fishing tackle, spare parts and portable tanks etc. A major safety characteristic of the plate is its requirement to have either level or basic flotation for boats less than 6 metres.
Remember; always check with your boat’s builder or a marine professional before modifying your boat’s hull or permanent fittings, as this can impact on the boat’s flotation and other aspects vital to its safe operation. For full details on ABP requirements please click here. Registration LabelThe registration label, which is issued as part of the annual registration renewal, must be attached to the exterior of a powered vessel on the port side where it is clearly visible. On sailing vessels, it must be placed on the transom or port side of the hull. FeesInformation regarding current registration fees is available from Info Line 13 12 56. Change of addressRegistered vessel owners must promptly notify NSW Maritime of any changes of address in writing or by telephoning the Info Line. Recognition of RegistrationTemporary exemption from the NSW registration requirements is available to visitors from another State, Territory or overseas. NSW registration is not required as long as the vessel:
If any of these conditions cannot be met and the vessel is registrable under NSW law, it must carry NSW registration when on navigable waters in this State. If the home State/ Territory or Overseas vessel does not have registration requirement, the vessel must be registered in NSW, or another State. Note: Vessels in Australian registry are not exempted from NSW registration.
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Capacity stickers must be displayed clearly on all powered vessels (except PWC). These stickers indicate the maximum number of people to be carried on a particular vessel. The sticker must be within one metre of the steering position(s) and clearly visible.
Most new recreational boats will need to have an Australian Builders Plate (ABP) to be registered in New South Wales. The ABP gives you key safety information such as: the number of people and load allowed on a boat; engine rating and weight; as well as buoyancy performance. 
