The first user for a new organisation will be asked to upload proof that the user is an authentic representative of the organisation. This user will be set up as the organisation administrator and will be able to manage and link other users/employees to the organisation account.  

If an operator’s email address is attached to a current commercial operations licence, the operator will already be linked to the organisation when they first login. They will be set the operator up as an organisation administrator and will be able to add other users/employees to the organisation account. 

Commercial operators can pay park entry fees online prior to entering a park, if required. The operator will receive a booking confirmation which can be presented to DBCA staff on arrival at the park. Please read the terms and conditions of using COLS to pay park entry fees (available for download at the bottom of this page).

A user manual for COLS can be downloaded at the bottom of this page.

When was the online system introduced? 

The online Commercial Operator Licensing System was introduced on 12 December 2019.

My current licence was granted prior to the introduction of the online system - is it still valid? 

Yes. When you wish to renew your licence, or make any amendments, please do so online through COLS. 

How do I log in to COLS the first time? 

You will need a valid email address to log in. COLS is accessed via a link sent to your email address and does not use a password. 

I've forgotten my password. How do I log in? 

There are no passwords required. Simply enter the email address linked to your account and click link sent to that email address to log in.

How do I update my details (contact, vehicles, insurance etc)? 

All details can be updated by logging into COLS. Please refer to the user manual (available for download at the bottom of this page) for instructions on how to update information. 

How do I add new parks and activities to my current licence? 

If you would like to add parks or activities to your current licence you will need to submit a licence amendment application through COLS. Please see the user manual for more information. 

When can I renew my commercial operation licence? 

Commercial operations licences can be renewed within three months of the expiry date. You will receive an email notification at this time. 

I received an email with a compliance requirement. What does this mean? 

Some operators may be required to complete or submit additional documents as a condition of the licence during the licence term. When you receive a compliance requirement email, simply login to COLS and click ‘Submit’ next to the requirement from your home dashboard to complete. 

How do I pay park entry fees online? 

Entry fees can be paid by clicking on the park entry fees tab once you’re logged in. Please see the user manual for more information. 

What do I present at the park entrance when entry fees are paid online? 

A booking confirmation will be emailed to you once entry fees have been paid. Please have an electronic or paper copy of this confirmation with you when you visit a park and present it if requested by park staff. 

Do I need to complete a docket if park entry fees have been paid online? 

No, a docket is not required if entry fees are paid online.  

Where do I request park entry cash or credit books? 

These can be requested through COLS when submitting a new application or renewal, or by emailing licensing@dbca.wa.gov.au. However, we encourage you to use the online payment method as much as possible. 

I have additional passengers on a tour that are not covered by my online park park entry fee payment? 

Park entry fees must be paid for additional passengers prior to entering a park, if fees are applicable. Payment for additional passengers can be made: 

• by the tour guide or driver through COLS on a mobile device prior to entry to the park
• remotely by an employee linked to the company through COLS, or 
• by the tour guide or driver at the gate by completing a docket from the commercial operator docket book. 

I have less passengers on the tour and have overpaid the entry fees.

If you have overpaid entry fees for a park visit, email DBCA at licensing@dbca.wa.gov.au with evidence to support your request for a refund. Terms and conditions of using COLS to pay park entry fees are available for download at the bottom of this page. 

Help, I’m trying to use COLS and I need advice.

We think you will find the user manual simple to follow and the online system easy to use, but if you need help, give DBCA a call on (08) 9219 8411 and we’ll talk you through.