In the interest of safe boating, the Department publishes detailed nautical charts of the Western Australian coastline for use by recreational and local commercial vessels.

These WA charts are not intended as meeting any chart carriage requirements under either Australian or International regulations, such as SOLAS V. The Australian Hydrographic Service and the UK Admiralty both publish official charts of Australia that meet these regulations.

Chart Index

pdf 761kb Jul 2011

These charts are available from authorised chart agents throughout Australia and the world. See the Australian Hydrographic Service and the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office for further details of availability.

Nautical charts are navigational tools, which are vital for all craft. They provide clear, concise information about ocean depths and coastal features as well as displaying accurate information about lights, beacons, piles, nautical limits and all navigational hazards. Mariners should keep their charts up to date by regularly incorporating the relevant Notices to Mariners.

The Department's paper nautical chart series is compiled to specifications based on those of the International Hydrographic Organisation, the worldwide charting standardisation authority, and are printed in full colour onto high quality map paper.

The West Australian coastline is approximately 12,000 km long and includes some of Australia's most dangerous waters. The Royal Australian Navy and the Department have ongoing programs to accurately chart this vast coastline.

The Department's nautical chart products may be purchased through this site.