Whale and Dolphin Conservation

Whale and dolphin watching permit form

• When is a whale and dolphin watching permit required?
• How to apply for this permit

When is a whale and dolphin watching permit required?

A whale and dolphin watching permit is only required for actions which are described in the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching as Tier 2 actions.

Please ensure that you have read the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching 2005 which explain how the EPBC Regulations operate.

You do not need to obtain a permit for whale and dolphin watching providing you are operating in accordance with the EPBC Regulations under the EPBC Act regarding whale and dolphin watching. 

• Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching 2005

How to apply for this permit

In the Australian Whale Sanctuary the Australian Government Environment Minister can permit a person to undertake whale and dolphin watching.

There is no fee for a whale and dolphin watching permit.

You will need to complete two forms:

1. The first form asks for general information about your application.
2. The supplementary form asks for details specific to your action.

1. Permit application form
   • Application form for all Cetaceans
2. Supplementary form
   • Supplementary Form B – Whale and Dolphin Watching in a Tier 2 Area

Complete both forms and post or fax them to:
Director
Cetacean Policy and Recovery Section
Marine Division
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
GPO Box 787
Canberra ACT 2601
Fax: 02 6274 1542
Email: epbcwild@deh.gov.au

For further information contact the Cetacean Permitting Team on 02 6274 1111.