16 June 2006

FREMANTLE PORTS CONTINUES SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS

Fremantle Ports’ security enhancement program is continuing.  In the new financial year, the focus will be on improving perimeter security and personnel identification.

Fremantle Ports Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Sanderson, said security was a high priority for ports around Australia, including Fremantle.

“We are required under law to ensure that our operational areas have appropriate security in place,” Kerry Sanderson said.

“Fremantle Ports has been implementing a security plan approved by the Federal Department of Transport and Regional Services, as well as working with customers, tenants and other stakeholders to improve security arrangements.”

Since 2004, almost $3 million has been spent by Fremantle Ports on Inner and Outer Harbour security. This has included replacing and upgrading time lapse video recording equipment and upgrading and extending the closed circuit television surveillance system.

Security fencing and barriers have been upgraded with 1800 metres of high-security palisade steel fencing installed and improved lighting installed on Victoria Quay.

The port security centre has been modernised and relocated to improve security access control and operational area monitoring.

“As part the next stage of the security enhancements, Fremantle Ports’ Maritime Security Access Card (MSIC) Service Centre is now processing applications for the new MSIC card,” Kerry Sanderson said.

The Maritime Security Identification Card plays a critical role in the Federal Government’s overall approach to security.  From 1 January 2007, everyone needing unescorted access in a Maritime Security Zone will need a Maritime Security Identification Card.

Maritime Security Identification Card applicants will be background checked by the Australian Federal Police.

“The Department of Transport and Regional Services (DOTARS) has allocated Fremantle Ports a priority processing period which ends on 31 July and applications received after that date will not be given priority.

“I encourage people who need regular access to port operational areas for work to apply for an MSIC as soon as possible, because from 1 January 2007, you will not be admitted without one,” Kerry Sanderson said.

Media Contact: Tim Walton 9430 3459