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Boating Safety
Boating requires planning, lifejackets and awareness of changing conditions.
Understanding the Context
Boating exposes people to deep, cold and unpredictable water. Capsizing, falls overboard and sudden weather changes are common hazards. Lifejacket use and trip planning significantly reduce risk. Many boating incidents occur quickly and unexpectedly, especially when conditions deteriorate or skills are limited.
Research and Statistics
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Over a 15-year period, 340 boating-related coastal drowning deaths were recorded.
Across the same period, 572 total boating fatalities occurred (including trauma and drowning).
In a 20-year period in one state, only one victim out of 69 boating-related drownings was wearing a lifejacket.
Key Hazards
Currents & Tides
Fast-moving water such as rips, currents or tidal flows that can quickly overpower swimmers.
Weather & Wind
Strong winds or poor weather conditions that create unsafe water conditions or impact small craft.
Excessive Speed
Excessive speed in boats or personal watercraft that limits control and increases collision risk.
Improper PPE
Lack of or improper use of personal protective equipment such as lifejackets or masks.
Offshore Winds
Strong offshore winds that push swimmers, inflatables or paddlecraft away from shore.
Defective Equipment
Defective equipment such as damaged lifejackets, boats or pool gear.
Unlicensed Operators
Unlicensed or unauthorised use of watercraft.
Overconfidence
Overestimation of abilities when swimming, boating or recreating.
Rule Violations
Violation of waterway rules that protect users.
Activity Separation
Lack of or poor separation between swimmers, paddlers, fishers and boats.
Defective Equipment
Lifejackets, boats, masks or equipment that is faulty or malfunctioning.
Unlicensed Operators
Operators of boats or watercraft without required licences or authorisation.
Untrained Tasks
Performing water activities or rescues without the required knowledge or training.
How to Stay Safe
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Plan Your Trip
Plan your boating or paddling trip with weather checks, tide charts and local conditions.
Tell Someone Your Plans
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Check your Safety Gear
Always check you are carrying the required safety equipment such as flares, radios and a charged phone.
Wear a Lifejacket
Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when boating, paddling or rock fishing.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Avoid alcohol and drugs when swimming, boating or fishing.
