Does anyone have any experience leaving Australia (on a private vessel) via Lord Howe Island? While Lord Howe does not have First Point of Entry (FPOE) status, I understand that it may be possible to get permission for a "tech stop" (e.g., refuelling, provisioning, rest, etc.). Border/customs formalities would be done ahead of time at either Sydney or Coffs Harbour, with no stops between the mainland and Lord Howe. No doubt the ABF is more than capable of tracking the vessel's route offshore.

I don't have the experience you're after, but I note Lord Howe is listed as a port of entry on the Border Force website: www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/entering-and-leaving-by-sea/ports-of-entry

This bit may also be of use: www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/entering-and-leaving-by-sea/yachts-and-pleasure-craft#content-index-3

Select to expand quote

Quixotic said..
I don't have the experience you're after, but I note Lord Howe is listed as a port of entry on the Border Force website: www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/entering-and-leaving-by-sea/ports-of-entry

This bit may also be of use: www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/entering-and-leaving-by-sea/yachts-and-pleasure-craft#content-index-3

Thanks. Not sure how I missed that!

It supports the use of using a island as a "tech stop" with prior consent.

Note: Due to staffing restraints on Lord Howe Island we are unable to provide Department of Home Affairs and Department of Agriculture clearances for arriving and departing smallcraft. Craft are still allowed to use Lord Howe Island as a tech stop (refuelling, provisioning) but,For smallcraft landing at Lord Howe Island from overseas, must make their next landfall at one of the Department of Home Affairs declared ports on mainland Australia. (Sydney, Newcastle, Eden, Coffs Harbour and Brisbane)For craft departing for overseas via Lord Howe Island will need to obtain their clearance at the Department of Home Affairs declared ports on mainland Australia. (Sydney, Newcastle, Eden, Coffs Harbour and Brisbane)

Check with Port Macquarie Police as they full all those positions, including harbour master with an officer based on the island.
Check if you have to book a mooring.

It's been awhile since my Pacific cruise but I was required to clear customs in Sydney.
Lord Howe is pretty small and vesting the officials there with that responsibility would be a little much. I'm not sure how inbound yachts are handled but I'm pretty sure they're also required to clear customs on the mainland.