Ballast Water

In reply to the Hon. C. BONAROS ().15 October 2025).

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries): I am advised:

1. Regarding consideration to the biosecurity risks of ballast water:

When ships take on ballast water, plants and animals that live in the ocean are also picked up. Discharging ballast water releases these organisms into new areas where they may become marine pests.

It is illegal to bring noxious species or notifiable aquatic pests and diseases into South Australia, including releasing or depositing exotic species via ballast waters. Offences exist under the Fisheries Management Act 2007 and Livestock Act 1997 and significant penalties may apply.

The state's Chief Veterinary Officer can order a vessel to be cleaned, or removed from South Australian waters, if a notifiable disease is suspected or confirmed.

Obligations to manage ballast water and ballast tank sediment apply in all national waters, under Australian government legislation.

2. Regarding mechanisms and protocols to mitigate risk of ballast water:

The Australian Ballast Water Management Requirements requires vessels to manage ballast water between Australian ports and carry a ballast water management plan in line with the national guidelines.

3. Regarding seeking further advise about biodiversity risks associated with ballast water:

A report on the biodiversity risks associated with ballast water will be requested from the Scientific Advisory Panel for the algal bloom.