The design is optimised for operating unmanned anchored at a stationary position on station offshore for prolonged periods of time, away from port.

[3][4] Carpentaria has a riveted steel hull and no superstructure, with a single mast amidships mounting the beacon lantern atop.

[3][4] In 1950, CLS4 was equipped with a diesel engine to power an anchor windlass; it was protected by a steel deckhouse added at that moment.

[2][3][4][5] Later in their career, Carpentaria was assigned as traffic separator in the Bass Strait, where they narrowly avoided being hit by container ships.

[3][4] As of late 2016, CLS4 Carpentaria is still part of the collection of the ANMM and is on display at the museum's wharves in Darling Harbour.