Victorian Channels Authority

Full description

The Victorian Channels Authority (VCA) was established under the Port Services Act 1995 to manage channels in port waters. It was incorporated on 1st January 1996 and commenced operations on 1st March 1996.

The VCA was responsible for the commercial navigation channels in Victorian port waters. It owned associated navigation aids and other plant and equipment relevant to its operations.

The VCA’s pricing for the use of channels and related services were regulated under a pricing order administered by the Regulator General in accordance with Section 50 of the Port Services Act.

The VCA had approximately 70 customers, being agents and owners of vessels who used its services. These owners and agents were charged according to the gross tonnage (GT) of their vessels for the use of channels, navigation aids, shipping control and other associated services.

The VCA reported to the Treasurer in respect of shareholder matters and to the Minister for Transport with respect to industry policy and regulation.

On the 3 November 2003, the responsibility of Melbourne channels and port waters was transferred over to the newly established Port of Melbourne Corporation (VA 4028), which also absorbed the functions and responsibilities of the Melbourne Port Corporation (VA 4837). 

The VCA was abolished pursuant to Section 181 of the Port Management Act 1995 (former name Port Services Act 1995) on 31st March 2004.

Responsibility for the Geelong channels, and the approaches to ports of Portland and Hastings was assigned to a new entity, the Victorian Regional Channels Authority (VA 5237), which was established on 1 April 2004.