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Installing and using an automatic location communicator

Before you commence fishing in a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) managed fishery, an automatic location communicator (ALC) must be purchased, configured and installed in accordance with the department’s VMS approved directions. 

Buying and installing an ALC

Buying, installing and commissioning an ALC can take up to a month to finalise, so it is advised to begin this process well before you intend to commence fishing operations. If you are not the fishing boat licence holder, you must seek their assistance to complete the paperwork. 

For information on the legal requirements for buying, installing and commissioning an ALC

View ALC approved directions

Installation process and forms

Steps

  1. Please contact the vessel monitoring section on (08) 6163 0903 to receive the most up to date information relating to approved ALCs and distributors.
  2. Select your ALC model. You must choose your model from those approved for use, which can be found in the Notice of Approved Automatic Location Communicators.
  3. Locate an ALC installer. This must be an ‘approved person’ as defined in the VMS Approved Directions.
  4. Complete the ALC Contact Details Formand the ALC Monitoring Agreement provided to you by the VM Section, with the help of your distributor or installer. 
  5. After installation of your ALC, the installer will complete an ALC Installation Certificate​. You must sign the form and send it to us with the forms above.
  6. Once we have received all required paperwork and monitored the ALC for a set period (please allow up to 4 hours) to ensure it is operational, it will be commissioned. A confirmation message will be sent to your vessel via the ALC. Keep a copy of this commissioning notification for your records.

Using an ALC

Once your ALC has been installed and you are linked to the VMS, there are other forms you may require.

Contacting the department for VMS support

During office hours

Outside office hours

Call our 24-hour VMS messaging service on (08) 6163 0925 if there is a problem with your messaging software or hardware and are required to submit a nomination for your fishing activity. Please ensure you leave ALL relevant details of your nominations.

Note: This 24-hour number is not a replacement to the normal use of the messaging equipment. The master or owner of the vessel fitted with the ALC must rectify any problem with the computer at the vessels first return to port. You should also contact a Vessel Monitoring Officer as soon as possible to ensure the ALC is operating effectively.