Sharing the Ocean: Shark Safety Along the NSW Coast

There has been increased attention on shark incidents along the NSW coastline in recent weeks. Any serious incident is confronting. It is also important that the conversation remains calm, factual and focused on safety rather than fear.

For many people across coastal communities, the ocean is part of everyday life. It is where people swim, surf, fish, paddle and work year round. It is also a natural environment that has always been home to marine life, including sharks.

Shark interactions, while serious, remain rare when compared to the millions of people who enter the ocean each year across NSW. What these incidents highlight is the importance of awareness and informed decision making when enjoying the water.

Sharks may move closer to shore for a range of natural reasons. Warmer water temperatures, whale migration, bait fish activity and changing weather conditions all play a role. Increased reporting and social media can also make incidents feel more frequent, even when overall risk remains low.

There are practical steps ocean users can take to reduce risk. Avoid swimming or surfing at dawn, dusk or at night. Stay out of the water near river mouths, particularly after heavy rain or flooding. Avoid swimming near fishing activity, bait balls or seabirds feeding. Wearing shiny jewellery or high contrast clothing is best avoided. Swimming in groups, staying closer to shore, choosing patrolled beaches and following advice from lifeguards and beach signage all help reduce risk. Shark alert apps and local warnings are also useful tools.

Some surfers and divers choose to use personal shark deterrent devices for additional reassurance. While these may reduce risk in certain situations, no measure can completely remove risk.

Australia’s coastline is one of the most biologically rich marine environments in the world. Sharks play an important role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Responding with fear or misinformation does not improve safety and can have broader impacts on coastal communities and marine conservation.

Entering the ocean always carries some level of risk, just like many outdoor activities. Being informed, aware of conditions and respectful of the environment is the most effective way to manage that risk.

The ocean is a shared space. Education, awareness and calm conversations are what help keep communities safe while continuing to enjoy the coastline we all value.