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RESEARCH AND DATA
Why this matters
People born overseas may have limited swimming skills, unfamiliarity with Australian waterways and reduced understanding of local hazards such as rips, sudden depth changes or strong currents. Language barriers can also make safety signs and warnings harder to interpret.
New arrivals are often unaware of risks unique to Australia’s beaches, rivers and rock platforms, which increases incident likelihood.
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People born overseas account for around 34% of all drowning deaths in Australia.
Around 36% of drowning deaths in multicultural communities involve people who have lived in Australia for five years or less.
Approximately 29% of drowning deaths among overseas-born people occur at beaches.
key hazards
Know your risks
Currents & Tides
Fast-moving water such as rips, currents or tidal flows that can quickly overpower swimmers.
Sudden Drop-Offs
Deep water or sudden underwater drop-offs where the bottom disappears without warning.
Swimming Skills
Lack of or poor swimming or survival skills, including difficulty floating or treading water.
Unpatrolled Beaches
Lack of or poor lifeguard supervision at beaches where no trained personnel are present.
Hidden Depth Changes
Depth variations that are sudden or not marked, creating unexpected deep-water areas.
Overconfidence
Overestimation of abilities when swimming, boating or recreating.
Underestimating Risk
Underestimation of the risk posed by conditions or water environments.
Ignoring Rules
Ignorance or disregard for dangers, rules or safety instructions.
safety information
How to Stay Safe
Follow these simple safety tips to keep you and your family safe
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Learn to Swim
Learning to swim is a lifesaving skill that builds confidence, safety and enjoyment in and around the water at every age.
Ask for Local Advice
Ask lifeguards or locals for advice about hazards such as rips or currents.
Choose Safe Entry Points
Choose safe entry points and enter water slowly and feet-first.
Tell Someone Your Plans
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Look After your Friends
Stay with friends around water and keep an eye on each other.
Check the Conditions
Check the weather, water movement, waves, water depth, and wind conditions before entering the water.
Learn CPR
Learn CPR so you can respond quickly in an emergency.