Skilled personnel direct shipping and monitor ship's positions in port waters. Shipping control staff use a range of equipment including a radar Vessel Tracking System, VHF and other radio communications, closed circuit television, mobile and conventional telephones. As well as ensuring the safe and efficient movement of shipping in Port Phillip, the VCA's Melbourne Shipping Management Centre plays a pivotal role in the delivery of vital services to port users. It has won acclaim from the commercial shipping sector for its efficiency and convenience.
Pilotage is compulsory for commercial shipping.
Pilots, tugs, linesboats and linesmen are provided by private commercial organisations. To obtain berth allocation, organise tugs, linesmen, linesboats and pilots, ship's agents make only one call to the Melbourne Harbour Control Centre, which book all the necessary services and make any amendments to accommodate schedule changes. This VCA service ensures an orderly and fair allocation of resources to all commercial vessels and service providers, at all times.