National Coastal Safety Report 2021 by SLSA

N ATION AL COA S TAL SAFE T Y RE POR T 2021 S U R F L I FE S AV I N G AU S T R A L I A

C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G S N A P S H OT

MALE

COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS

FEMALE Location

AT THE BEACH

ROCK/CLIFF

AT LEAST 5KM FROM A LIFESAVING SERVICE

OFFSHORE Activity

31%

23%

SWIMMING/ WADING

9% ROCK FISHING

BOATING

9% FALLS

WATERCRAFT NB: Arrows indicate change from previous year

45 4

CONTENTS IN T RO D U C T I O N

S EC TION ONE: COM MUNIT Y

S EC TION THRE E: DROWNING A N A LYS IS

AUS T R A L I A N P O PU L AT I O N

COA S TA L D ROWNIN G & FATA L I T Y

COA S TA L V I S I TAT I O N

COV ID -19 I M PAC T S

N AT I O N A L COA S TA L D ROWNIN G OV ERV IE W

AC T I V I T Y PA RT I CIPAT I O N

D ROWNIN G LO C AT I O N S

S WI M M IN G A B IL I T Y

COA S TA L S A FE T Y

FE AT U RE: T HE T HINK L INE

S EC TION T WO: C A PA B ILIT Y

U NIN T EN T I O N A L COA S TA L FATA L I T IE S 4 3 COA S TA L FATA L I T Y LO C AT I O N S 45 D ROWNIN G VS . FATA L I T Y

COA S TA L D ROWNIN G S N A P S H OT

COA S TA L FATA L I T Y S N A P S H OT

FE AT U RE: M A RINE FAU N A D E AT H S

S U RF L IFE S AV IN G S ERV I CE S

NE W S O U T H WA L E S

M EM B ER S HIP C A PACI T Y

Q U EEN S L A ND

A S S E T C A PA B IL I T Y

V I C TO RI A

RE S CU E S

WE S T ERN AUS T R A L I A

PRE V EN TAT I V E AC T I O N S

S O U T H AUS T R A L I A

FIR S T A ID

TA S M A NI A

FE AT U RE: S L S UAV C A PACI T Y

N O RT HERN T ERRI TO RY

G LOS S A RY

REFEREN CE

INTRODUCTION

241

lives have been lost on the Australian coastline over the last year, each one tragic. This is the reality we are now faced with. During 2020/21 there has been tumultuous change, not only domestically, but globally. COVID has changed the way we live, including where we recreate, take holidays and the activities we engage in. For many, the way we holiday now looks extremely different, with overseas travel almost non-existent and interstate travel considerably less due to various restrictions. Many of us heeding the advice to visit the country’s regional destinations and holiday closer to home, creating an increase in both local and regional coastal visitation. The National Coastal Safety Survey shows a 2% increase in coastal visitation on the previous financial period with 14.4 million visitors (16 years and older) to the coast, on an average of 3.3 times per month. This calculates to a staggering 500 million individual visitations to the coast during the 2020/21 period. Swimming and wading continues to be a favourite past time with 48% of visitors taking part in this activity, 18% participating in land based or rock fishing and 15% undertaking boating. In spite of COVID, surf lifesavers and lifeguards in many areas of the country found that there was an increased desire for people visiting the coast. In some cases, restrictions had meant that exposure to coastal waters had been limited for some time, as had recreating and using aquatic facilities to maintain a healthy lifestyle and confidence in the water. With the inability to travel internationally, interstate local and regional coastal areas experienced influxes of visitors. For many visitors, this meant swimming and recreating at unfamiliar locations. As a result, surf lifesavers and lifeguards attended to over 8,000 rescues, provided first aid to more than 53,000 people and performed more than 1.75 million preventative actions to stop situations occurring in the first place. I am grateful for the continued efforts of SLS surf lifesavers and lifeguards, without which Deloitte Access Economics (2020) calculated there would be an additional 1,363 lives lost and 818 additional critical injuries around the Australian coastline every year. However, despite these efforts a total of 241 lives were lost along the Australian coastline. 136 of these were as a result of drowning, an increase (13%, n=16) above the previous year and significantly above the 17-year average of 114. A further 105 fatalities were recorded, 61 which were unintentional. Drowning deaths for swimming, boating, watercraft, falls and rescuerelated activities were all above the 17-year average.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

Recently the World Health Organisation (WHO), along with International Life Saving Federation (ILS) conducted the first World Drowning Prevention Day (25 July). The focus was on ‘Anyone can drown, no one should.’ Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) took an active part in this event and promoted this throughout Australia. The statement is a foundation principle which all aquatic leaders support. The fact that all drowning deaths are preventable is one of SLSA vision elements in reducing the loss of life and injury along our coastline. Earlier this year, along with the Australian Water Safety Council, we launched the Australian Water Safety Strategy. We were pleased to be able to provide insights and contribute to the plan around the prevention of drowning on beaches and at coastal locations while also having input into other areas. The strategy embraces evidence-based innovation for the delivery of current and future services. The loss of 241 lives goes much further than this number. There are many more who have been hospitalised with short term, long term and lifelong impacts as a result. Further to this there are the families, friends and loved ones who are impacted by these events, which goes largely unseen. However, the impacts go further still, and includes first responders and emergency service personnel. It is for these many reasons that SLSA will continue to work towards its goal of zero preventable drowning deaths. The National Coastal Safety Report 2021 provides evidenceinformed insights into factors relating to drowning deaths and other fatalities. The work undertaken to develop this report is significant and I thank those involved for the efforts taken to bring this together. It will assist in identifying and prioritising innovation and strategy around coastal safety and drowning prevention. In closing I commend this report to you and encourage you to take the time to read this detailed publication, keeping in mind it is more than numbers, also representing the lives of 241 people who are not with us today. I encourage you to support the objectives of SLSA in reducing injury and loss of life along our coastline.

Adam Weir Chief Executive Officer Surf Life Saving Australia

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

T O TA L S E R V I C E P L A N

he Total Service Plan is SLSA’s national drowning reduction strategy and service plan. It is created using an iterative process of analysis and review to identify coastal safety issues of national importance. This approach follows the public health model and is consistent with international risk management principles. In collaboration with stakeholders, SLSA identifies coastal safety risks using incident monitoring, coastal risk assessments and participation analysis. This information is analysed to identify the top national coastal safety issues, priorities and blackspot areas that require intervention Communication & Consultation or mitigation strategies.

Context Drowning Statistics Non-fatal Drowning Data Operational Statistics Market Research Population Data Participation/Behaviour Data

Coastal Safety Hub

Risk Assessment

Risk Identification Incident Tracking National Risk Register Capability Statement Coastal Risk Assessments Participation/Behaviour Analysis

Market Research Stakeholder Consultation

Analysis Coastal Safety Briefs Trend Identification GIS Analysis

THE NATIONAL SAFETY AGENDA Councils, Committees and Groups The issues and blackspots identified through Conferences and Forums the Total Service Plan process form the basis of SLSA’s National Safety Agenda. The agenda influences lifesaving operations, including services and equipment allocation. It drives public education, including evidence-based mitigation strategies, communications campaigns and pilot projects, and informs SLSA’s research plan. The Total Service Plan takes a risk management approach. It allows SLSA to use the evidence to ensure we locate lifesaving services and assets in areas of need and have appropriate public education programs and mitigation strategies to address the coastal safety issues and known blackspots. Embedded in the process is continual monitoring and evaluation to ensure the treatments and interventions are effective in reducing drowning deaths along the Australian coast. The coastal safety needs of the Australian community reflected in the National Safety Agenda and the Surf Life Saving movement’s capacity and capability to meet these needs are explored in the ‘Capability’ section of this report.

Critical Incident Analysis Target Identification Case Studies

Monitoring & Evaluation Monitor Trends Monitor and Evaluate Service/Asset Deployment Evaluate Pilot Programs Evaluate Research

Evaluation National Coastal Safety Report Strategic Research Agenda

National Safety Agenda National Coastal Safety Issues Blackspot Identification

Treatment/Intervention Lifesaving and Support Services Blackspot Reduction Program Beach Safety Equipment Fund Communication Campaigns Public Education and Training Early Warning Systems

Figure 1

TOTAL SERVICE PLAN PROCESS OVERVIEW The Total Service Plan aligns with the International Standard ISO 31000:2018 framework, which provides principles and guidelines for risk management.

NATIONAL SAFETY AGENDA ISSUES 1.

10.

AGE 15-39 RIP CURRENTS

BOATING

ROCK FISHING

WATERCRAFT

TOXICITY & HEALTH

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

YOUNG MALES

LIFEJACKETS

INTRODUCTION

OVER 55 YEARS

DANGEROUS MARINE CREATURES

OVERSEAS BORN

COMMUNIT Y SECTION ONE

14.4M

10.9M

500M

Australian adults visited the coast

Coastal activity participants

Individual coastal visitations

A U S T R A L I A N P O P U L AT I O N V I S I TAT I O N & PA R T I C I PAT I O N BY S TAT E

Figure 2

AUSTRALIAN POPULATION DENSITY PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA)

0.2M - COASTAL VISITORS

This heat map shows the estimated Australian population density per LGA at June 2021. The majority of LGAs with a population density greater than 100 persons per square kilometre are located on Australia's extensive coastline.

5.0 - VISITS PER MONTH 1.8 - HOURS PER VISIT 0.2M - C OASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

The National Coastal Safety Survey 2021 (NCSS2021) collected data on coastal visitation, frequency and activity participation for each state which are also presented here.

Darwin

WA 1.6M - COASTAL VISITORS 3.6 - VISITS PER MONTH 2.1 - HOURS PER VISIT 1.2M - C OASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

Perth

Perth 0

1,000km

SCALE

< 0.1 persons per km2 0.1−1 persons per km2 1−10 persons per km2 10 −100 persons per km2 > 100 persons per km2 0

1,000km 1,000km SCALE SCALE

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

Darwin

QLD 3.1M - COASTAL VISITORS 4.4 - VISITS PER MONTH 2.4 - HOURS PER VISIT 2.4M - C OASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

Brisbane

NSW

SA Adelaide

Sydney

1.0M - COASTAL VISITORS

3.6 - VISITS PER MONTH

Canberra

2.7 - VISITS PER MONTH

2.3 - HOURS PER VISIT

2.2 - HOURS PER VISIT 0.7M - COASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

3.7M - C OASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

Melbourne

VIC 3.4M - COASTAL VISITORS

4.7M - COASTAL VISITORS

TAS 0.4M - COASTAL VISITORS

Hobart

2.0 - VISITS PER MONTH

3.9 - VISITS PER MONTH

2.3 - HOURS PER VISIT

1.9 - HOURS PER VISIT

2.5M - COASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

0.2M - C OASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

SECTION ONE

COMMUNIT Y

C O A S TA L V I S I TAT I O N N AT I O N A L V I S I TAT I O N & PA R T I C I PAT I O N

2021

2.3

3.3

14.4M

HOURS/ VISIT

VISITS/MONTH

AUSTRALIAN ADULTS VISITED THE COAST

10.9M COASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

COASTAL PARTICIPATION SUMMARY Australians love the coast. To better understand how the coast is used, the annual National Coastal Safety Survey (NCSS) explores coastal participation, behaviours and perceptions. In the last twelve months, 14.4 million Australian adults (16 years and above) visited the coast on average 3.3 times each month. This suggests that there were over 500 million individual visitations to the coast last year with 10.9 million coastal activity participants (Figure 3).

Scu

Swi m Wa ming/ ding

7.2M COASTAL VISITORS

ing

Div

3.6 VISITS PER MONTH

48%

2.3 Bo

Rock g Fishin

HOURS PER VISIT

n ati

5.8M

15%

13%

COASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

Land-b ased Fishing

7.2M COASTAL VISITORS

3.0

2.3 HOURS PER VISIT

lin

Watercraft

l ke or

Su rfin g

VISITS PER MONTH

5.1M 5+ times per week 1−4 times per week 1−3 times per month 3−11 times per year Less often

COASTAL ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS

Figure 3

NCSS2021: COASTAL PARTICIPATION BY ACTIVITY AND GENDER In the last 12 months, males and females visited the coast equally, but females participated in coastal activities less. Swimming and wading was the most popular activity (48%), followed by boating (15%) and land-based fishing (13%).

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

C O V I D -19 I M P A C T S C H A N G E S TO C OA S TA L V I S I TAT I O N & PA R T I C I PAT I O N

WHY MORE OFTEN (%)

WHY LESS OFTEN (%)

Moved closer to coast

COVID restrictions

Travel restricted to Australia Exercise and relaxation

Favourable weather

16%

Because of lockdown, to go out

New habit

Due to COVID restrictions

6 5

No COVID No MASK 3

For my children

Change in circumstances

Health concerns/Illness

Cost

40%

No one to go with

Other

Other 3

Can't say

Percentage (%)

18%

22%

40% 40%

SWIMMING/WADING

25%

19%

ROCK FISHING

17%

LAND-BASED FISHING

Less often than in previous years BOATING

23%

PWC

Less often than in previous years

20%

32%

43%

About the same as in previous years

Or about the same as in previous yea More often than in previous years Can't say

31%

39%

42%

44%

WATERCRAFT

2% 35%

49%

35%

38%

SURFING

36%

42%

34%

3% 12%

Can't say

Percentage (%)

37%

Too crowded

Working from home

30%

Not enough time 6

Less often than in previous years Or about the same as in previous years More often than in previous years Can't say

38%

Increased free time

Adverse weather

SNORKELLING

More often than in previous years

35%

41%

SCUBA DIVING

Can't say

Figure 4

NCSS2021: DID AUSTRALIANS VISIT THE COAST MORE OR LESS IN THE LAST YEAR - WHY & BY ACTIVITY Recent unprecedented challenges have anecdotally affected coastal participation trends. When asked if, how and why coastal visitations had changed in the last year, 38% Australian adults have visited the coast less and 16% more often than in previous years. For those who visited less, 60% attributed this change due to COVID-19 restrictions, while one in five of those who visited more had moved closer to the coast. Coastal activities also observed changes. For example, 25% of watercraft and 30% of PWC users went more often this summer, while 49% of rock fishers fished less than in previous years . Understanding these changes is important to ensure coastal safety services remain relevant and able to support the community.

SECTION ONE

COMMUNIT Y

A C T I V I T Y P A R T I C I P AT I O N N C S S 2 021 PA R T I C I PAT I O N BY G E N D E R , F R E Q U E N C Y & S TAT E

Coastal participation differs by activity, gender, frequency and state. These pages show the proportion of male and female participants, the number of total, frequent and occasional participants, how many hours annually frequent vs. occasional participants spend on an activity, and the percentage of the state population who participate in each activity.

ROCK FISHING

LAND-BASED FISHING

GENDER

SWIMMING/WADING

51%

49%

70%

FREQUENCY

TOTAL 9M 3M FREQUENT SWIMMERS

0.4M FREQUENT ROCK FISHERS

100

STATE

HOURS/ YEAR

100

HOURS/ YEAR

7% 4

37%

TOTAL 2.3M 0.8M FREQUENT LAND -BASED FISHERS

1.5M OCCASIONAL LAND -BASED FISHERS

HOURS/ YEAR

16%

HOURS/ YEAR

26% 14% 16%

12%

42% 43%

4% 8%

9% 17%

56%

55%

44%

SWIMMERS/WADERS ALWAYS CHOOSE TO SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS

63%

0.5M OCCASIONAL ROCK FISHERS

HOURS/ YEAR

51% 54% 42%

30%

TOTAL 0.9M

6M OCCASIONAL SWIMMERS

HOURS/ YEAR

ROCK FISHERS DO NOT USE A LIFEJACKET OR BUOYANCY AID

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

CONSIDER LAND-BASED FISHING NOT VERY HAZARDOUS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

PWC

SURFING

GENDER

BOATING

60%

51%

40%

FREQUENCY

TOTAL 2.8M 0.7M FREQUENT BOATERS

0.2M FREQUENT PWC USERS

110

STATE

HOURS/ YEAR

29% 19% 12%

69%

0.5M FREQUENT SURFERS

100

HOURS/ YEAR

10% 7% 4%

27%

DO NOT HAVE A LICENCE

SECTION ONE

31%

0.7M OCCASIONAL SURFERS

HOURS/ YEAR

6% 7

7% 7%

6% 1%

54%

OF BOATERS ALWAYS FISH WHEN BOATING

TOTAL 1.2M

0.6M OCCASIONAL PWC USERS

4% 2%

13% 14%

49%

TOTAL 0.8M

2.1M OCCASIONAL BOATERS

110

70% ALWAYS AVOID SURFING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL/DRUGS

COMMUNIT Y

A C T I V I T Y P A R T I C I P AT I O N N C S S 2 021: PA R T I C I PAT I O N BY G E N D E R , F R E Q U E N C Y & S TAT E

SCUBA DIVING

WATERCRAFT

GENDER

SNORKELLING

55%

45%

63%

STATE

FREQUENCY

TOTAL 1.6M 0.4M FREQUENT SNORKELLERS

0.1M FREQUENT DIVERS

100

11%

HOURS/ YEAR

2% 2%

3% 1%

7% 6%

SNORKEL AT UNPATROLLED LOCATIONS

44 %

TOTAL 1.5M 0.5M 1M FREQUENT OCCASIONAL WATERCRAFT USERS WATERCRAFT USERS

150

HOURS/ YEAR

10%

HOURS/ YEAR

13% 9% 4%

31%

ALWAYS AVOID ALCOHOL/ DRUGS WHEN DIVING

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

8% 5%

61%

29%

56%

0.2M OCCASIONAL DIVERS

HOURS/ YEAR

12% 10% 6

37%

TOTAL 0.3M

1.2M OCCASIONAL SNORKELLERS

HOURS/ YEAR

WATERCRAFT USERS NEVER CARRY SAFETY EQUIPMENT

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

A C T I V I T Y P A R T I C I P AT I O N PR O F I L E S & PR AC T I C E S

SWIMMERS/ WADERS

SURFERS

52%

35-69 years old

58%

16-34 years old

62%

25-49 years old

22%

Swim at unpatrolled locations

35%

Are beginners

31%

Always carry safety equipment

46%

Always look for rip currents

49%

Always surf with others

85%

Use kayaks and/or SUPs

67%

70 years or older always swim between the flags

52%

Females surfers surf at patrolled beaches

54%

Choose locations they consider safe

52%

F eel experienced enough to take some risks

70%

Always avoid alcohol/drugs when surfing

14%

Never wear a lifejacket

PWC

SCUBA DIVERS

BOATERS

62%

16-34 years old

55%

25-49 years old

68%

25-49 years old

54%

Do not have a license

87%

Use power boat

33%

Dive further than 2 nautical miles offshore

75%

Always wear a lifejacket

10%

Boat further than 2 nautical miles offshore

66%

Always dive with others

50%

Always carry safety equipment

43%

Do not always wear a lifejacket

61%

Always avoid alcohol/drugs

40%

Are beginners

81%

Always carry safety equipment

33%

Have rescued someone while diving

LAND-BASED FISHERS

SNORKELLERS

WATERCRAFT

62%

25-49 years old

58%

Choose location for marine wildlife

50%

Always use safety equipment

51%

Feel experienced enough to take some risks

66%

Can swim 50m in ocean without stopping

ROCK FISHERS

52%

25-49 years old

54%

25-49 years old

17%

Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid

43%

Never wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid

36%

Never carry EPIRB/phone

58%

Always avoid alcohol/drug

46%

Always wear appropriate clothing/footwear

35%

50-69 year olds consider rock fishing extremely hazardous

54%

Consider it reasonable to consume alcohol while fishing

66%

Male rock fishers feel experienced enough to take some risk

SECTION ONE

COMMUNIT Y

SWIMMING ABILITY C O N F I D E N C E & A B I L I T Y I N C OA S TA L WAT E R S

In 2021

Last year

9% I cannot float or swim 10%

22%

CANNOT SWIM/ FLOAT

17%

27%

2 to 5 years ago

I can comfortably float for over 1 minute and swim a little distance I can comfortably float and gently swim for about 15 minutes I can comfortably float and gently swim for up to 30 minutes I can comfortably float and gently swim for up to 60 minutes I can comfortably float and gently swim for as long as I wish Can't say

More than 5 years ago

Never

Can't say 0

Percentage (%)

Figure 5

Figure 6

NCSS2021: UNAIDED SWIMMING ABILITY IN COASTAL WATERS

NCSS2021: THE LAST TIME PARTICIPANTS SWAM MORE THAN 50M IN THE OCEAN

Three in ten Australians cannot swim or float in the ocean for more than a few minutes.

75%

73%

Only 9% of Australian adults swam further than 50m in the ocean in 2021 while almost three in ten have never swum this distance in the ocean.

72% 66% 61%

Surfing

Watercraft

Scuba Diving

Snorkelling

Rock Fishing

59%

PWC

57%

Boating

55%

Land-based Fishing

52%

Swimming /Wading

Figure 7

NCSS2021: ABILITY TO SWIM 50M IN THE OCEAN WITHOUT TOUCHING THE BOTTOM Swimming ability is not always very high amongst Australian adults. Surfers (75%), followed by watercraft users (73%) and scuba divers (72%) have the highest percentage of participants able to swim 50m in the ocean without touching the bottom.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

C O A S TA L S A F E T Y H A Z A R D PE R C E P T I O N

Coast Beach

Percentage (%)

35%

31 30

19% 18

27%

3 0

24%

33% 20%

Extremely Very Somewhat Not very Not at all Can't say hazardous hazardous hazardous hazardous hazardous

Figure 8

Figure 9

NCSS2021: HAZARD PERCEPTION OF THE COAST VS. THE BEACH

NCSS2021: PROPORTION WHO CONSIDER THE COAST TO BE VERY OR EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS BY STATE

Almost half (42%) of Australian adults believe the beach (ocean, surf zone and adjacent sandy beach) is not hazardous.

A quarter (26%) of Australians consider the coast to be extremely or very hazardous, but this differs by state. One in three Northern Territorians consider the coast to be hazardous compared to one in five in Tasmania.

Hazard Activity

70 61

Percentage (%)

50 40

40 30 20 12 10

25 14

ed ing ing as g m ell -b ishin im rk d o n F Sw Sn La

ing

aft cr er

at W

rfi

ivi

D ba

ing

av W

t eS

M er

ing

ish

F ck

at Pl

R s/

ile

oc Cr

ing

t eS

M al

x nE

rre

u pC

p Tro

Figure 10

NCSS2021: COASTAL HAZARDS & ACTIVITIES RATED EXTREMELY OR VERY HAZARDOUS One in four (26%) Australians consider the coast to be extremely or very hazardous. Rip currents remain the highest rated coastal hazard by Australians, while rock fishing is regarded the most hazardous coastal activity.

SECTION ONE

COMMUNIT Y

C O A S TA L S A F E T Y R I S K TA K I N G

Male

80 67

70 Percentage (%)

60 50

64 58

57 44

40 30

Female

36 27

20 10 0

ing m ng im adi w S /W

ng rfi

a rcr

ate W

ck Ro ing h s i F

d se ba ng d- ishi n La F

ing

ati

ll ke

r no

a ub Sc iving D

Figure 11

NCSS2021: PARTICIPANTS WHO BELIEVE THEY ARE EXPERIENCED ENOUGH TO TAKE SOME RISKS IN THEIR COASTAL ACTIVITY BY GENDER Across all coastal activities, males continue to believe they are experienced enough to take some risks compared to females. This is highlighted with a 36% difference in rock fishing and 40% difference in PWC riders. 60

Play Safe Index (%)

90 Male Female

95 20

40 45 50 Participants experienced enough to take risks (%)

Figure 12

NCSS2021: PLAY SAFE INDEX VS. RISK TAKING BY GENDER The Play Safe Index has been developed to show how often activity participants follow safety practices. Here we compare this against self reported belief in whether they are experienced enough to take risk. This revealed a clear separation between genders. Males were more likely to take risks and less likely to follow safety practices, while the opposite was true for female participants.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

C O A S TA L S A F E T Y C OA S TA L R E S C U E S

he role that bystander rescuers play in preventing drowning incidents cannot be underestimated, often they are the only form of assistance outside patrolled areas or times. Exploring perceptions helps to understand behaviours surrounding rescue incidents. A clear disparity exists between the numbers of rescues from the perspective of the rescuer or the rescuee, with fewer Australians considering themselves as rescuees. Most rescuers were rescuing a stranger (47%), at a beach (54%), in the afternoon (44%), and away from Surf Life Saving services (63%). Bystander rescue events are often highly emotive events and can also be fatal when the rescuer gets in trouble themselves. Previous research has revealed a major factor in these tragic situations is the lack of flotation devices used or taken when enacting a rescue, here over half reported not using any rescue or flotation equipment (51%). These results support the call for further water safety and rescue training to be made readily available, to build our community of 'everyday' surf lifesavers.

11%

AUSTRALIAN ADULTS HAVE RESCUED SOMEONE

AUSTRALIAN ADULTS HAVE BEEN RESCUED

54%

63%

RESCUES OCCURRED AT A BEACH

OCCURRED AWAY FROM SLS/LIFEGUARDS

47%

44%

WERE RESCUING A STRANGER

OCCURRED BETWEEN 12-4PM

Rescued

Rescuer

15%

Percentage (%)

30 25

15 10

10 5

6 2

11 12

51%

DID NOT USE FLOTATION DEVICE

0 d ing se ell ba ng d- ishi nork n S La F

ft ck ng cra Ro ing oati h ter B s a i F W

ng rfi

ing m ng im adi w S /W

10%

51%

7% 6% 6%

a ub Sc iving D

Board Tube Other Flotation Device/Watercraft Angel Ring/Life Buoy Lifejacket None Can't Say/Recall

Figure 13

Figure 14

NCSS2021: PARTICIPANTS WHO HAVE BEEN RESCUED OR RESCUED SOMEONE ELSE BY GENDER & ACTIVITY

NCSS2021: EQUIPMENT USED BY RESCUERS Over half of all rescues were conducted without the use of any rescue or flotation equipment (51%).

A third (33%) of scuba divers have reported rescuing others while diving, but only 10% report having been rescued themselves.

SECTION ONE

COMMUNIT Y

F E AT U R E : T H E T H I N K L I N E A B E H AV I O U R C H A N G E S A F E T Y C A M PA I G N

AWARENESS

YEAR

• State the facts about rips. • Challenge people's perceptions of rips. • Challenge people's rip identification knowledge. • Convey the message people don't know what they think they know. • Sow the seeds of doubt.

Surf Life Saving Australia implemented a five-year (2016/21) coastal safety campaign to address rip current drowning (Figure 15). Phase 1 (2016/18), ‘The Facts About Rips Campaign’ was a broad campaign to increase awareness and knowledge. This phase challenged the beliefs of beachgoers when it comes to their understanding of rips, their ability to identify a rip, their knowledge of what to do if caught in a rip and provided guidance on how to swim safely at the beach. Phase 2 was developed after evaluating Phase 1 and was designed to influence beachgoer behaviour and maintain awareness built in Phase 1. Phase 2 (2018/21) used a more emotive approach and harder hitting messaging to impact on behaviour change. ‘The Think

BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE

YEAR

• Take awareness and changed perception to give clear directive of new behaviour that's catchy and memorable. • Encourage consideration of beach conditions and rip current identification. • Stop. Look. Make a safe plan. • Continue messaging around swimming at patrolled beaches and between the red and yellow flags.

Line Campaign’ introduced the concept of a line in the sand to remind swimmers to stop and check for hazards before entering the water. It introduced people impacted by rips including those who had been caught in a rip and had lost family members. The concept is applicable to other safety messages by encouraging coastal visitors to STOP. LOOK. PLAN. STOP. to check for rips LOOK. for other dangers PLAN. how to stay safe Each year the National Coastal Safety Survey (NCSS) evaluated the impact and exposure of the campaign as reported by the Australian public. With 2020/21 being the fifth and final year of the campaign, we present some highlights here. AWARENESS: RIPS REMAIN THE NUMBER ONE COASTAL HAZARD Four out of five Australian adults (78%) consider rip currents to be extremely or very dangerous (an increase from 70%, NCSS2015; Figure 16). Australians who think they can spot rips and those who have previously been caught in a rip are most aware of this danger. Figure 17 shows that awareness of rip currents as a coastal hazard has increased. Percentage of swimmers (%)

ip currents are Australia’s number one coastal hazard. On average, 21 people drown in Australia each year due to rip currents1. Rip currents are strong, narrow, often channelised currents of water that start close to the shoreline of ocean beaches and flow offshore through the surf zone. They are common features on Australian beaches with an estimated 17,000 rips occurring on any given day around the coast. In a typical year, rip currents account for more deaths in Australia than sharks, floods and cyclones combined2. Rip currents are known to have contributed to one in five (20%) of coastal drowning deaths since 2004/05, with the relationship between rip currents, beaches, and swimming/wading incidents well-established.

78 70

• Harder hitting message to impact on behaviour change. 2015

2021

Figure 15

Figure 16

SLSA’S FIVE-YEAR NATIONAL RIP CURRENT AWARENESS AND BEHAVIOUR CHANGE CAMPAIGN PLAN

PERCEPTION OF RIP CURRENTS AS VERY OR EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS

FEATURE

THE THINK LINE

KNOWLEDGE: HOW TO ESCAPE A RIP? When asked what to do when caught in a rip current, the top five responses were: 1) raise your arm to attract attention (91%) 2) relax and stay calm (89%) 3) regularly assess the situation (87%) 4) ask a surfer for help (82%) 5) float (65%). Most Australians considered the rip current options poster (Figure 18) messaging to be clear and easy to understand (90%), felt better informed on how to get out of a rip current (87%), and learned that different options exist to escape a rip current (85%). IMPACT: POTENTIAL FOR BEHAVIOUR CHANGE After seeing the components of the Think line campaign (Phase 2), 83% of Australians were more likely to swim between the red and yellow flags in the future. The same proportion (83%) were more likely to STOP. and LOOK. for the presence of rip currents prior to entering the water. This proportion was highest among swimmers (96%), of whom only

Percentage of swimmers (%)

BY KNOWING YOUR OPTIONS

ESCAPE

CURR

E NT

ESCAPE

RIP CURRENT

CURR

E NT

AVOID RIP CURRENTS – SWIM BETWEEN THE RED AND YELLOW FLAGS IF YOU’RE CAUGHT IN A RIP CURRENT, STAY CALM, CONSERVE YOUR ENERGY AND CONSIDER THESE OPTIONS: RAISE AN ARM AND CALL OUT TO SEEK HELP.

FLOAT WITH THE CURRENT. IT MAY RETURN YOU TO A SHALLOW SANDBANK.

SWIM PARALLEL TO THE BEACH. YOU MAY ESCAPE THE RIP CURRENT.

REASSESS THE SITUATION – IF WHAT YOU’RE DOING ISN’T WORKING, TRY ANOTHER OPTION UNTIL YOU RETURN TO SHORE.

Figure 18

POSTER: YOU CAN SURVIVE A RIP CURRENT BY KNOWING YOUR OPTIONS

46% reported to always look for the presence of rip currents prior to entering the water previously in the survey (Figure 17). This demonstrates the potential for the campaign to change behaviour with adequate campaign exposure. SUMMARY The Think Line campaign is clear and resonates with the Australian population. The campaign has intrinsic value with clear messaging that communicates rip currents can be hazardous and dangerous and has

Before

YOU CAN SURVIVE A

After

the potential to change behaviour (Figure 18). However, the overall messaging for years 4 and 5 was not visible enough and therefore did not cut through or was diluted due to this lack of exposure. These results show that we have an effective behaviour change tool but suggest that campaign exposure needs to be greater and more consistent to see these changes reflected within the Australian community.

Draw the line on Rips.

Campaign exposure

Stop. Look. Plan.

Figure 17

Thousands of people are caught in rips every year, and too many of them drown. Before you cross the line, STOP to check for rips. LOOK for other dangers. PLAN how to stay safe.

PROPORTION OF SWIMMERS WHO WILL LOOK FOR RIP CURRENTS BEFORE AND AFTER CAMPAIGN EXPOSURE

beachsafe.org.au #dontrisktherip

FEATURE

THE THINK LINE

C A PA B I LI T Y SECTION T WO

8,064 47,164

RESCUES

PROFICIENT MEMBERS

1,341,174 VOLUNTEER PATROL HOURS

1,172

314

211

IRBs

SLS Clubs

RWC

C A PA B I LIT Y

s Australia’s peak authority on coastal safety, Surf Life Saving exists to save lives, create great Australians and build better communities. Central to our ability to achieve this goal is the capacity to provide and deliver core surf lifesaving services along the coast. Core services includes coastal surveillance patrols and aquatic search and rescue (SAR) operations, which are dependent on our Surf Life Saving Clubs, the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) and our dedicated members. Emergency services acknowledge the capability of SLS working in partnership to support their public safety efforts in coastal and aquatic environments, after-hours and during natural disasters. The public and emergency services are provided reassurance that these services are delivered to a consistent and high standard based on the diversity of awards held by our 40,713 Bronze Medallion holders and 6,451 Surf Rescue Certificate holders (totalling 47,164 proficient surf lifesavers) through the 314 Surf Life Saving Clubs (Figure 21). Our members are able to deliver these services thanks to the standard of gear, equipment, and technology available for use, including the radio communications network linked through coastal radio networks or integrated into government radio networks. Radio networks are monitored and maintained by SLS communication and operations centres within each State/ Territory, which provide vital operational support, incident management, data collection and emergency service liaison services.

Roving surveillance patrols are conducted to actively monitor stretches of coastline near primary patrolled areas and play a vital role in the SLS drowning prevention strategy. These roving patrols are possible due to the 485 side-by-side (SSV) and 4WD vehicles. Another strategy to conduct these surveillance patrols is through aerial surveillance which be undertaken through the fleet of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). SLS services extend beyond the red and yellow flags to provide surveillance and emergency response in isolated and hazardous coastal areas. Agile craft such as 211 rescue water craft (RWC) and five jet rescue boats (JRBs) allow surf lifesavers to access white-water areas such as coastal bars and rocky coastlines (Figure 25). Beyond the surf zone a fleet of nine offshore rescue boats (ORBs) and eight rigid-hull inflatable boats (RIBs) extend the SLS response capability into blue-water rescue areas providing longer range surveillance and SAR operations. AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICE The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) is the largest supplier of professional lifeguards in Australia. ALS provides lifeguard services to 70 local government councils and land managers across Australia for both beach and pool environments. The ALS employs over 1,000 lifeguards through full-time, part-time and casual contracts providing further capability and coverage of our coastline. ALS operations are fully integrated and complimentary to SLS patrol services, providing seamless coverage to communities and local government areas for up to 365-days a year. ALS operations and SLS services support each other to provide coverage required in each area including weekdays, weekends, public holidays, and after-hours response. Becoming a lifeguard is a pathway opportunity our volunteer members as qualifications and training standards are consistent between ALS and Surf Life Saving Clubs; some specialised training is undertaken to meet ALS requirements. Several councils around Australia operate internal lifeguard services. Statistics for those services have not been included in this report.

VOLUNTEER SURF LIFESAVERS As the largest volunteer movement in Australia, and one of the largest worldwide, the diversity and capabilities of our members is essential to our success. With over 186,000 members, of which 45,205 performed a patrol last year, the collective effort to keep the community safe around the coast is enormous. In the last year, surf lifesavers performed 8,064 rescues (Figure 26), 1,757,518 preventative actions (Figure 27), and provided 53,446 first aid treatments (Figure 28). To support our volunteer surf lifesavers to perform their role they are provided with fit-for-purpose gear and equipment and trained to use it safely in challenging conditions. Across Australia Surf Life Saving Clubs have thousands of surf rescue boards and rescue tubes mainly utilised around the red and yellow flagged area during patrol. Rescue boards were the most common equipment used in rescues, followed by rescue watercraft (RWCs; Figure 24). Further to this there are 1,172 inflatable rescue boats (IRB), allowing surf lifesavers to quickly navigate through inshore surf conditions, travel further distances for prolonged periods of time.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

WESTPAC LIFESAVER RESCUE HELICOPTERS For rapid, isolated or complex rescues, nine Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters provide aerial support to surf lifesaving services and further extend our surveillance and SAR capability. These important assets also provide support to other emergency services in a range of emergency and disaster situations.

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

BRONZE MEDALLION HOLDERS

40,713

FIRST AID*

13,545

GOLD MEDALLION

624

ADVANCED RESUSCITATION TECHNIQUES

SPINAL MANAGEMENT

2,658

14,677

SILVER MEDALLION AQUATIC RESCUE

RADIO OPERATOR CERTIFICATE

SILVER MEDALLION BEACH MANAGEMENT

SILVER MEDALLION IRB DRIVER

1,031

5,139

10,480

7,816

SILVER MEDALLION ADVANCED FIRST AID

IRB CREW CERTIFICATE

235

15,309

Figure 19

2020/21: QUALIFICATIONS HELD BY BRONZE MEDALLION HOLDERS There are 40,713 bronze medallion award holders, many of whom also hold a number of other lifesaving awards, equalling over 71,000 additional surf lifesaving qualifications. This highlights the extent of additional training our surf lifesavers undertake to ensure they are highly skilled first responders.

Award held by Bronze Medallion Holders

Award held by Surf Rescue Certificate Holders

40,713 0

Bronze Medallion 15,309 0

IRB Crew Certificate First Aid*

13,545 369

Advanced Resuscitation Techniques

14,677 39 7,816 0

Silver Medallion IRB Driver Surf Rescue Certificate

0 6,451

Silver Medallion Advanced First Aid

235 0 0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

Figure 20

2020/21: TOTAL QUALIFICATIONS HELD BY PROFICIENT SURF LIFESAVERS There are 47,164 proficient members, of which 40,713 hold a bronze medallion and 6,451 hold a surf rescue certificate. Many of these members hold a number of other certifications, totalling over 99,000 qualifications. *Total includes First Aid, Apply (Senior) First Aid awards.

SECTION T WO

CAPABILIT Y

S U RF LIFE SAVIN G S E RVI CE S

Figure 21

2020/21 SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICES There are 314 Surf Life Saving Clubs (SLSCs) and seven affiliated marine rescue around Australia. There are 129 SLSCs in New South Wales, 57 in Queensland, 57 in Victoria, 31 in Western Australia, 22 in South Australia, 15 in Tasmania and three in the Northern Territory. The Australian Lifeguard Service provides 245 lifeguard services around Australia, with 89 in New South Wales, 77 in Queensland, 46 in Victoria, 23 in Western Australia, six in Northern Territory, and two each in South Australia and Tasmania.

Surf Life Saving Club/Lifeguard Service Marine Rescue Affilliate Darwin

9 134 54 24

Brisbane

218

Perth Adelaide

Canberra

103

Melbourne 0

1,000km

SCALE

24 Hobart

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

Sydney

M E M B E R S H I P C A PAC IT Y

15,000

13,107

Male Female Non-Binary

Number (n)

12,000 9,000

8,091 5,649

6,000

3,852

3,509

3,000 9

NSW

2,833

2,676

2,131

QLD

VIC

1,4571,071

448 269

TAS

47 NT

Figure 22

2020/21: PATROLLING MEMBERS Patrolling members include members who hold one or more of the following awards: Bronze Medallion, Surf Rescue Certificate, Advanced Resuscitation Certificate, First Aid or Radio Operator Certificate. There were a total of 45,205 members who performed a patrol. Of the patrolling members, 59.5% were male and 40% were female. 18 members identified as a non-binary gender. 20,000

18,395

Bronze Medallion Surf Rescue Certificate

Number (n)

15,000 9,068

10,000

5,628 5,000

2,376

NSW

1,269 QLD

4,656 1,473

VIC

919 WA

2,236 300 SA

644

97 TAS

17 NT

Figure 23

2020/21: PROFICIENT MEMBERS There were a total of 40,713 proficient Bronze Medallion holders and 6,451 Surf Rescue Certificate holders. New South Wales has 20,771 proficient members followed by Queensland (10,337) and then Victoria (7,101).

2020/21: PATROLLING SURF LIFESAVERS

12%

NB: <1% were non-binary gender

39%

USED IN

18%

22% OF RESCUES 22%

Board RWC Rescue Tube IRB No Gear Other

MALE

Figure 24

FEMALE

2020/21: EQUIPMENT USE IN RESCUES Boards were used in 39% of rescues, followed by RWCs (22%) and rescue tubes (18%).

SECTION T WO

CAPABILIT Y

A S S E T C A PA B I LIT Y

Figure 25

2020/21 SLS MAJOR ASSET LOCATION AND SERVICE RANGE SLS maintains a fleet of 211 rescue watercraft (RWC), five jet rescue boats (JRB), eight rigid-hull inflatable boats (RIB), nine offshore rescue boats (ORB) and nine rescue helicopters. Their locations and service ranges are depicted on this map.

Key to Asset Location Rescue Water Craft (RWC) Jet Rescue Boat (JRB)

Darwin

Rigid-hull Inflatable Boat (RIB) Offshore Rescue Boat (ORB) Rescue Helicopters

Brisbane

Perth Adelaide Canberra

Melbourne

1,000km

SCALE

Hobart

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

Sydney

RESCUES

Figure 26

2020/21: RESCUES PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA) SLS lifesavers, lifeguards and lifesaving services performed 8,064 rescues across 115 local government areas around Australia.

Key to Rescues per LGA < 14 Rescues 15 - 49 Rescues

Darwin

50 - 149 Rescues 150 - 399 Rescues < 400 Rescues

143

2,704

662

Brisbane

153 3,768

Perth

Sydney

Adelaide

612 0

Canberra

Melbourne

1,000km

SCALE

SECTION T WO

CAPABILIT Y

Hobart

P R E V E N TAT I V E A C T I O N S

Figure 27

2020/21: PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA) SLS lifesavers, lifeguards and lifesaving services performed 1,757,518 preventative actions across 115 local government areas around Australia.

Key to Preventative Actions per LGA < 1,499 Actions 1,500 - 4,999 Actions

Darwin

5,000 - 19,999 Actions 20,000 - 99,999 Actions < 100,000 Actions

670 717,660 74,132 19,960

Brisbane

705,898

Perth

Sydney

Adelaide

Canberra

233,700 0

1,000km

Melbourne

SCALE

5,498 Hobart

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

FIRST AID

Figure 28

2020/21: FIRST AID PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA) SLS lifesavers, lifeguards and lifesaving services performed 53,446 first aid treatments across 115 local government areas around Australia.

Key to First Aid Incidents per LGA < 49 Incidents

Darwin

50 - 349 Incidents 350 - 649 Incidents 650 - 2,999 Incidents < 3,000 Incidents

777 30,281 3,408 462

Brisbane

11,784 Perth Sydney

Adelaide

6,669 0

Canberra

Melbourne

1,000km

SCALE

65 Hobart

SECTION T WO

CAPABILIT Y

F E AT U R E : S L S U A V C A P A C I T Y EYES IN THE SK Y

1000

2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18

Total Kms Total Flights Hours

60,000

51,025

50,000 40,000

Number (n)

ith social distancing the new normal, remote surveillance has never been so important to service delivery within Surf Life Saving. Here we present the national integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within SLS, which provide support to current surf lifesaving services by giving surf lifesavers more eyes in the sky at patrolled beaches and allow the boundaries and capability of service delivery to be extended. UAV integration into SLS operations has successfully enhanced public safety along the coast through risk reduction. Remote identification of dangerous coastal hazards such as rip currents, sharks or crocodiles, allows for a timely response or for alerts to be provided, which can effectively mitigate the risk posed to the public. In the last few years, Surf Life Saving UAVs have conducted 328 beach safety flights (including rip current identification), attended 28 incidents, and performed 2,900 surveillance flights for dangerous marine fauna (predominantly sharks and crocodiles; Figure 31). The number of clubs with trained operators and UAV craft has grown (Figure 30) with craft now registered nation-wide. Similarly, flight hours, kilometres flown and the number of flights have also grown (Figure 29), in-line with the number of trained operators and craft available to Surf Life Saving, demonstrating the extension of SLS capacity and its potential for the future.

40,000 33,408

30,000

25,000 19,037

20,000

7,976

8,011

10,000 7,000

4,391 2,000

3,900 800

2017/18

2018/19

2019/20

2020/21

Figure 29

SLS UAV MEASURES OVER TIME Flight hours, kilometres and the number of flights have increased considerably since 2017/18.

931

800

Number (n)

9% 607

600

8 IN 10

404

400

FLIGHTS FOR SHARK SURVEILLANCE

272

200 60

SLS Clubs

120

150

82%

59 12

Craft

Shark surveillance Beach safety monitoring Training Crocodile surveillance Incidents attended

Operators

Figure 30

Figure 31

SLS UAV CAPACITY OVER TIME

SLS UAV ACTIONS 2020/21

The number of clubs, UAV craft, and trained operators has increased with craft now registered nation-wide.

During 2020/21 patrol season, most UAV flights were used for shark surveillance (n=2,887), followed by beach safety monitoring (n=328, including rip current identification), and operator training (n=174).

FEATURE

SLS UAV CAPACIT Y

OVER 51,000KM

7,976

FLOWN

FLIGHT HOURS

14 MINS

92 UAV READY SLS CLUBS

CRAFT

103

CROC SURVEILLANCE

AVERAGE FLIGHT TIME AVERAGE FLIGHT LENGTH

1.5KM

33,408 FLIGHTS

2,887

SHARK SURVEILLANCE

328 BEACH SAFETY FLIGHTS

931 UAV OPERATORS

174

TRAINING FLIGHTS

INCIDENTS ATTENDED

D R O W N I N G A N A LY S I S SECTION THREE

COASTAL 136 DROWNING DEATHS

90 % MALE

10 % FEMALE

DROWNING CAUSAL FACTORS 2004/21

Overseas-born

Rip Currents

47%

20%

Medical/Injury

28%

C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G & F ATA L I T Y 2 02 0/21: Y E A R I N R E V I E W

241

44%

53%

COASTAL DEATHS

Coastal drowning deaths Ocean drowning deaths Coastal fatalities

136

COASTAL

DROWNING DEATHS

105

OCEAN INTENTIONAL

COASTAL FATALITIES

UNINTENTIONAL

129 7 44 61

48 AQUATIC 57 NON AQUATIC

Figure 32

2020/21: FATAL COASTAL INCIDENT OVERVIEW

2.5 2.43 2.0

1.5 1.39

1.08

1.0

1.11

1.00

0.90

0.5

0.54

Rate per 100,000 pop.

Drowning Aquatic Non Aquatic 17-year average Rate per 100,000 pop.

100

Number (n)

hile the challenges we face are ongoing, our love and affinity with the coast continues – as does the need for ensuring surf lifesaving services are there in times of need. With restrictions and other pressures affecting how we interact with or recreate on the coast, adaptability and resilience are key to maintaining relevant safety practices. SLSA monitors both drowning and other coastal fatalities to better understand the collective impact on Surf Life Saving services and the wider Australian community. A total of 241 deaths were recorded along the coast in 2020/21. The majority were due to drowning (n=136), with a further 105 coastal fatalities from other causes (61 of these were unintentional). Males continue to be over-represented, accounting for 90% of this years coastal drowning deaths. Swimming and wading regained its top rank (n=42, 31%), followed by boating, and then rock fishing, falls and watercraft activities equally (Figure 37). Almost all activities were above average this year, with swimming, rescue and rip currentrelated incidents of note. With half (51%) of drowning deaths occurring more than five kilometres from a Surf Life Saving service, bystander rescuers play an integral role in saving lives, however in too many incidents the rescuer became the victim (n=10, 7%). Coastal incidents can have devastating impacts on families and communities, including surf lifesaving personnel. Involvement in major rescues, traumatic or fatal events can have long-lasting effects on the health and wellbeing of those involved. Research plays a central role in monitoring changes, identifying new areas or populations of concern, and guides future prevention or mitigation strategies. As Australia’s peak coastal safety authority, understanding this informs resource allocation to support Surf Life Saving and the community services they provide.

0 NSW

QLD

VIC

TAS

Figure 33

2020/21: COASTAL DEATHS BY STATE COMPARED TO 17-YEAR AVERAGE New South Wales recorded the highest number of coastal deaths, but were consistent with the average, as was South Australia. Victoria and Queensland recorded more while Tasmania fewer coastal deaths compared to the average. Northern Territory recorded the highest mortality rate (2.43/100,000 pop.) followed by Western Australia (1.39/100,000 pop.) and Tasmania (1.11/100,000 pop.). Drowning deaths were more prevalent in all states except for the Northern Territory.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

Coastal drowning death Coastal fatality

Darwin

Coastal drowning death or fatality

6 36 | 16

21 | 16 8|8

Brisbane

45 | 43

Perth

Sydney

Adelaide

Canberra

Melbourne

1,000km

SCALE

21 | 15 Hobart

Figure 34

2020/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH & FATALITY LOCATIONS In 2020/21, there were 136 coastal and ocean drowning deaths and 105 other coastal fatalities. Red and blue numbers indicate numbers of drowning deaths and fatalities respectively for each state. For states with small numbers, black numbers indicate combined drowning death and other fatality numbers.

2020/21: COASTAL INCIDENT LOCAL GOVERNMENT BLACKSPOTS A blackspot is an area where a concentration of incidents are recorded and have a high probability/risk of ongoing re-occurrence. These LGAs recorded the highest numbers of fatal coastal incidents in 2020/21. NSW: National Parks and Wildlife Services (26), Coffs Harbour (7), Wollongong (7), Northern Beaches (5), Waverley (5), Newcastle (5), Mid-Coast (5) and Ballina (4) QLD: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (13), Gold Coast (10), Sunshine Coast (5), Douglas (4) and Noosa (4) VIC: Parks Victoria (14), Greater Geelong (6) WA: Parks and Wildlife Services (8)

SECTION THREE

DROWNING ANALYSIS

N AT I O N A L C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G O V E R V I E W 2 02 0/21: Y E A R I N R E V I E W

Male

Female 1.2

5% 5%

1.0 15

16%

0.6

0.4

48%

Rate per 100,000 pop.

Number (n)

0.8

48% Beach Offshore Rock/Cliff Bay Port/Marina Jetty River/Creek

BEACH

22%

5 0.2

Figure 36

85+

80 - 84

75 - 79

70 - 74

65 - 69

60 - 64

55 - 59

50 - 54

45 - 49

40 - 44

35 - 39

30 - 34

25 - 29

20 - 24

15 - 19

10 -14

5-9

0-4

2020/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY Almost half of this years drowning deaths occurred at a beach (n=65), followed by offshore (n=31) and rock/cliff (n=22) locations.

0.0

Figure 35 Swimming /Wading

2020/21: DROWNING DEATHS BY AGE & GENDER (N=136) The highest number of drowning deaths were recorded for individuals aged 25-29 (n=18), followed by 30-34 year olds (n=14). The highest mortality rate was for 65-69 year olds (1.02/100,000 pop.), followed by the 70-74 year old age group (0.98/100,000 pop.). Males accounted for 90% of coastal drowning deaths (n=123), with a mortality rate of 0.97/100,000 men.

DROWNING DEATHS

90%

20-34 YEAR OLDS

Watercraft

Fall

Rock Fishing

Attempting a Rescue

0.53

RATE/100,000 POP.

Snorkelling

Scuba Diving

Other

Unknown

10%

17-year average 2020/21

Number (n)

Figure 37

60-74 YEAR OLDS

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

The 20-34 year old age group account for 31% of coastal drowning deaths, while 60-74 year olds represent 26%.

Boating

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

136

2020/21: DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY Swimming/wading recorded the most incidents (n=42) followed by boating (n=31), then watercraft, falls and rock fishing (n=12 each). Swimming/wading, boating, watercraft, fall and rescue-related drowning deaths were all above average.

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

37%

26% 15%

15% 1%

OFFSHORE

OUTER-REGIONAL

INNER-REGIONAL

MAJOR CITIES

REMOTE

VERY REMOTE

Figure 38

2020/21: REMOTENESS CLASSIFICATION OF COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS One third of drowning deaths occurred in major cities (n=50), followed by inner (n=36) and outer-regional (n=21) locations. The ‘remoteness classification’ of an incident location was coded to the Australian Statistical Geographic Standard Remoteness Areas.

77% COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS OCCURRED BETWEEN 6AM AND 6PM

Morning (6am-12pm) Afternoon (12pm-6pm) Evening (6pm-12am) Night (12am-6am) Unknown

60 51

16 13

40 Percentage (%)

Number (n)

9 7

27 22

10 0 Jul Aug Winter

Sep

Oct Nov Spring

Dec

Jan Feb Summer

Mar

Apr May Autumn

Jun

<1km

1-5km

>5km

Figure 39

Figure 40

2020/21: DROWNING DEATHS BY MONTH AND TIME OF DAY Most of this years drowning deaths (36%, n=49) occurred during summer (Dec-Feb) and three-quarters (77%, n=105) occurred during the day (6am-6pm).

2020/21: DROWNING DEATH DISTANCE FROM SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE Half of this years coastal drowning deaths (n=69) occurred greater than 5km from a Surf Life Saving service.

SECTION THREE

DROWNING ANALYSIS

N AT I O N A L C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G O V E R V I E W 2 0 0 4/21: 17-Y E A R A N A LY S I S

Cause of Death Listed

No Cause of Death 0.6

150 137

119

120 108

103

97 Number (n)

112

119

121

120

117

110

106

0.5

107 0.4

120

136 125

84 0.3

60 0.2 30

Rate per 100,000 pop.

137

0.1

0.0

0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Figure 41

2004/21: NATIONAL COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS (N=1,937) Annual coastal drowning deaths and mortality rates are illustrated above. There were 136 coastal drowning deaths recorded in 2020/21, above the 17-year average of 114. Similarly, the 2020/21 mortality rate is 0.53/100,000 population, above the 17-year average (0.49/100,000 pop.).

114

AVERAGE DROWNING DEATHS

0.49

Swimming/Wading 24

Boating 12

Rock Fishing

AVERAGE RATE PER 100,000 POPULATION

Snorkelling

Watercraft 6

Fall 4

Attempting a Rescue

87%

13%

Other

Unknown

6 0

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

17-year average 2020/21

Scuba Diving

Number (n)

Figure 42

20-34 50-64 YEAR OLDS

YEAR OLDS

The 20-34 year old age group account for 27% of all coastal drowning deaths, while 50-64 year olds represent 24%.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

2004/21: AVERAGE DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2020/21 Drowning numbers vary by activity and over time. Swimming/wading has recorded the most incidents on average (n=565), followed by boating (n=409), and rock fishing (n=212). Swimming/wading, boating, watercraft, scuba diving, fall and rescue-related drowning deaths were all above, while rock fishing was equal and snorkelling was lower than their 17-year average.

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

38%

26% 18%

7% 5%

OFFSHORE

MAJOR CITIES

INNER-REGIONAL

OUTER-REGIONAL

REMOTE

VERY REMOTE

Figure 43

2004/21: REMOTENESS CLASSIFICATION OF COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS Over one-third of coastal drowning deaths have occurred in major cities (n=743), followed by inner (n=494) and outer-regional (n=341) locations. The ‘remoteness classification’ of an incident location was coded to the Australian Statistical Geographic Standard Remoteness Areas.

3% 2% 7%

North America

15% Europe

23%

19%

Asia

Africa

45%

BEACH

Oceania 22%

53%

Latin America

1% <1%

Australia

Beach Offshore Rock/Cliff Bay Port/Marina

Figure 44

Jetty River/Creek Coastal Pool Other

2004/21: BIRTH CONTINENT OF DECEDENT Birth continent is known for 76% of coastal and ocean drowning deaths (n=1,463). Of these, 53% of decedents were Australian-born (n=775), 23% born in Asia (n=339) and 15% born in Europe (n=219). TOP 10 DECEDENT BIRTH COUNTRIES % Australia.................................... 53.0% China.......................................... 5.7% United Kingdom........................... 5.3% New Zealand................................ 2.6% India............................................ 2.5%

South Korea................................. 2.4% United States of America.............. 2.0% Germany..................................... 1.6% Vietnam...................................... 1.4% Japan........................................... 1.4%

SECTION THREE

Figure 45

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY Nearly half of the coastal drowning deaths have occurred at beaches (n=874), followed by offshore (n=431) and rock/cliff (n=362) locations.

DROWNING ANALYSIS

N AT I O N A L C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G O V E R V I E W 2 0 0 4/21: 17-Y E A R A N A LY S I S

DROWNING LOCATION

10% UNKNOWN

26%

23%

25%

LOCAL

RESIDENT

INTRASTATE VISITOR

INTERSTATE VISITOR

INTERNATIONAL VISITOR

10KM

10 - 50KM

>50KM

Figure 46

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION DISTANCE FROM PLACE OF RESIDENCE Most decedents were local to the drowning location (n=500) followed by intrastate visitors (n=489) and nearby residents (n=445).

12%

Percentage (%)

74% AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

Australian resident Short term visitor Student Holiday visa/Backpacker Asylum seeker Unknown

74%

0 < 1 km

1 - 5 km

> 5 km

Unknown

Figure 47

Figure 48

2004/21: VISITOR CATEGORY OF DECEDENT

2004/21: DROWNING DEATH DISTANCE FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

Most decedents were Australian residents (n=1,442) followed by short term visitors (n=168) and international students (n=61).

Morning (6am-12pm) Afternoon (12pm-6pm) Evening (6pm-12am) Night (12am-6am) Unknown

300 250

294

229 192

Number (n)

200 150

141 117

Almost half of recorded coastal drowning deaths (n=875) occurred greater than 5km from a Surf Life Saving service.

213 188

Figure 49

155

113

111

100

2004/21: DROWNING DEATHS BY MONTH & TIME OF DAY 99

50 0

Jul

Aug

Winter

Sep

Oct Spring

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Summer

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Most coastal drowning deaths (37%, n=715) have occurred during summer (Dec-Feb) and two-thirds (66%, n=1,282) have occurred during the day (6am-6pm). Month is unknown for two incidents.

Autumn

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

60 50

Percentage (%)

52 50

30 21

20 10

3 0

0 Alcohol

Alcohol & Drugs

Drugs

None

Medical Condition

Not Performed / Unknown

Medical & Injury

Injury

None

Figure 50

Figure 51

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING, ALCOHOL & DRUGS

2004/21: MEDICAL CONDITIONS & INJURIES IN COASTAL DROWNING

Alcohol and drugs are known to contribute to one in five coastal drowning deaths (19%), although this could be higher given toxicology is unknown for 21%.

Medical conditions and injuries are considered co-morbidities in 28% of coastal drowning deaths, with a further 27% of incidents currently unknown.

WATER DEPTH AT TIME OF INCIDENT

TOP THREE RIPRELATED ACTIVITIES

45%

44%

26%

OVERHEAD

55%

COULD TOUCH THE OCEAN FLOOR

Unknown

38% SHOULDER 20%

12%

SWIMMING/ WADING (N=565)

18%

WATERCRAFT (N=143)

WAIST

54%

KNEE

70%

ATTEMPTING A RESCUE (N=71)

Yes No Unknown

Figure 52

RIP CURRENTS & DROWNING Rip currents are known contributors for one in five coastal drowning deaths (20%), but this could be much higher with 26% unknown. For these known cases, 55% of decedents could touch the ocean floor at the time the incident occurred.

SECTION THREE

DROWNING ANALYSIS

Ashmore 5 Reef

D R O W N I N G L O C AT I O N S 2 0 0 4/21

INSET: Indian Ocean Territories (Inset is same scale as main map)

4 3 50

Christmas Island 3

Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Christmas Island to Port Hedland approx. 1,800 km

2 2

3 2 2 4 6 2 2 2

298

2 3 4 2

Key to Drowning Activity 2 3

Attempting a Rescue 2 2 3

Boating & PWC

2 2

Fall

2 2 4 3 7 3 2

Jump 2 3 8 2 3 9 4 6 2 2

Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport

PERTH

6 7 2

2 2

Rock Fishing

3 3 3

Scuba Diving

4 2 3

Snorkelling

Swimming/Wading

2 9 2

Watercraft Other Unknown 4

Multiple instances per activity at the same location

Capital City

1,000km

SCALE

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

5 5 3 2

Torres Strait

DARWIN 2

3 3 3 2 2

2 4

2 4 3 6 4 10

7 7

2 3

4 3 2 3

2 4 2

2 2

2 2 2

391

6 3

3 2

2 2 2

3 2 4 4 7

131

7 2 3

2 3 6 4 6 2 2

2 7

BRISBANE

3 7 2 22 9 4 13 5

2 2 2 2 6 23 2 6 6 2 2

2 2

3 3 2 2 8 3 2 4 2

2 2

707

4 3

2 12

ADELAIDE

2 2

4 2 3 2 2

2 3

2 3 2 2 5

2 6 9 2 2 2

4 3 3 2

8 2

2 3 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 2 3 2 3 3 5 2 2 2 2 3

3 2 2

HOBART

9 2 2 3

7 2 2

Lord Howe Island

29 20 17 6 6 4 5 4 3 2 21 17 17 7 5 3 15 4 4

2 4 2

6 2 10 4 7 2 4 5 3 2 5 4 3 2 13 9 2 2 2 2 2 2

2 2 4

2 20 8 6 4 2 2

276

2 3 4 7 7 13 2 2 2 3

SYDNEY

CANBERRA

MELBOURNE 2

3 6

2 2 3 4 5 2 2 15 3 5 6

10 3 5

4 3

2 2 3 2 3 4 2 7 8 2 3 3 4

2 2 3 7 4

2 2 13 2

2 2 2 3 2 2 3

U N I N T E N T I O N A L C O A S TA L F ATA L I T I E S 2 0 0 4/21: 17-Y E A R A N A LY S I S

Cause of Death Listed

100

No Cause of Death

0.5

Number (n)

78 71

61 53

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

Rate per 100,000 pop.

2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Figure 53

2004/21: UNINTENTIONAL COASTAL FATALITIES (N=1,125) Annual coastal fatality numbers and mortality rates are illustrated above. There were 61 unintentional coastal fatalities recorded in 2020/21, below the 17-year average of 66. Similarly, the mortality rate (0.24/100,000 pop.) was below the 17-year average (0.29/100,000 pop.). 18

Boating

AVERAGE COASTAL FATALITIES

0.29

Swimming/Wading Non Aquatic Transport

Fall

Watercraft

AVERAGE RATE PER 100,000 POPULATION

Snorkelling

Scuba Diving

4 17-year average 2020/21

Land-based Fishing

Other 6

Unknown

86%

14%

10 Number (n)

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS Figure 54

20-39 45-64 YEAR OLDS

YEAR OLDS

The 20-39 year old age group account for 21% of coastal fatalities, while 45-64 year olds represent 42%.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

2004/21: ANNUAL AVERAGE OTHER COASTAL FATALITIES BY ACTIVITY COMPARED WITH 2020/21 Fatality numbers vary by activity and over time. Boating has recorded the most incidents since 2004 (n=306), followed by swimming/wading (n=165), and non aquatic transport (n=109). This year, swimming/wading, watercraft, and other activities (e.g. walking) were above, while snorkelling was equal to and boating, non aquatic transport, scuba diving, land-based fishing and fall-related incidents were lower than average.

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING LOCATION

10% UNKNOWN

30%

20%

18%

14%

LOCAL

RESIDENT

INTRASTATE VISITOR

INTERSTATE VISITOR

10KM

10 - 50KM

>50KM

INTERNATIONAL VISITOR

Figure 55

2004/21: COASTAL FATALITY LOCATION DISTANCE FROM PLACE OF RESIDENCE Most non-drowning decedents were local to the incident location (n=333), followed by nearby residents (n=218) and intrastate visitors (n=207).

4% 7%

1% >1%

45%

10%

BEACH

22%

Percentage (%)

9% Beach Offshore Rock/Cliff Bay Port/Marina Jetty River/Creek Coastal Pool Other Unknown

40 30 24 20

10 4 0 < 1 km

1 - 5 km

> 5 km

Unknown

Figure 56

Figure 57

2004/21: COASTAL FATALITY LOCATION CATEGORY

2004/21: COASTAL FATALITY DISTANCE FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

Most coastal fatalities (n=501) occurred at a beach, followed by offshore (n=245) and rock/cliff locations (n=114). Morning (6am-12pm) Afternoon (12pm-6pm) Evening (6pm-12am) Night (12am-6am) Unknown

150 120 Number (n)

96 85

131

Over half of recorded coastal fatalities (n=597) occurred greater than 5km from a Surf Life Saving service.

126 98

102

Figure 58 66

65 60

30 0

Jul

Aug

Winter

Sep

Oct Spring

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Summer

SECTION THREE

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

2004/21: COASTAL FATALITIES BY MONTH & TIME OF DAY Most coastal fatalities (32%, n=355) have occurred during summer (Dec-Feb) and two-thirds (66%, n=738) have occurred during the day (6am-6pm). Month is unknown for 1% (n=11) incidents.

Autumn

DROWNING ANALYSIS

C O A S TA L F ATA L I T Y L O C AT I O N S 2 0 0 4/21

INSET: Indian Ocean Territories (Inset is same scale as main map)

Christmas Island

Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Christmas Island to Port Hedland approx. 1,800 km

2 2

210 Key to Fatality Activity Attempting a Rescue

Boating & PWC Fall

2 2

Jump

2 2

Land-based Fishing

Non Aquatic Transport

3 3 2 2 2 2

3 3 4 5 10 2 4

Rock Fishing

2 4

Scuba Diving

4 2

PERTH

4 2

Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Watercraft Other Unknown 4

Multiple instances per activity at the same location

Capital City

1,000km

SCALE

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

Torres Strait

2 2

DARWIN 4

12 5 5 2

6 3 4 2 6 2 2 3 3

2 2

4 3

2 3 2 4 3

2 2 2 2 3

307

3 2 2

2 3 2 3 3 3 4

3 2

2 3

9 2 2 2 7 4 5 3 3 4 3

BRISBANE 6 2 2 3 4 4 2 3 4 6

2 2 2 4 4

318

2 2

6 3

2 3 4

2 3 3 3 7 2 3 5 5 9 12 21

ADELAIDE

3 2 2 2 2

SYDNEY 2

2 2 3

11 8 3 3 5 3 2 2

CANBERRA

MELBOURNE

2 2 2

2 3 4 2 3 4

3 2 2 2 3

7 5 4 3 2 2 2 2 4 2

106 2 2

43 2

HOBART 2 2 3 2

Lord Howe Island

D R O W N I N G V S . F ATA L I T Y 2 0 0 4/21: OV E R V I E W

1 : 1.4

Figure 59

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING & FATALITY RATIOS

1.3 : 1 1.4 : 1

For each coastal fatality, Australia records 1.7 coastal drowning deaths. Victoria has the largest ratio with 2.6 coastal drowning deaths per fatality, while the Northern Territory has 1.4 coastal fatalities per drowning death.

1.6 : 1 2.2 : 1 2.6 : 1

DROWNING : FATALITY NATIONAL RATIO 1.7 : 1

2.1: 1

Drowning deaths (%) Coastal fatalities (%)

5.4 5

Percentage (%)

3.7 3.2

2.8 2.5 2.0

2 1.3

1.1

0.2

0.3

t or

ng qu at No

-b nd La

sp ic

Tra n

Fis

Di ub a

Re in pt

At te m

vin

ue sc

in ke ll or

g Sn

ish ck F

Ju m

PW Fa ll

g& in Bo at

g in W ad g/ in m im

W at er cr aft

0.4 0.3

0.4 0.0

0.1

0.7

0.5

0.6

0.7

1.2 1

rowning deaths represent the majority of unintentional coastal deaths, with almost two drowning deaths recorded for every coastal fatality since 2004/05. This ratio differs by state, for example in Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania more than two drowning deaths occur for each coastal fatality recorded, while in the Northern Territory more coastal fatalities are recorded than coastal drowning deaths. Similarly, there are differences observed for particular coastal activities, with drowning more prevalent for swimmers and waders, while for coastal fatalities more occur while boating. Alcohol and drugs are known risk factors for coastal deaths, known to contribute to 19% of coastal drowning deaths and 15% of other coastal fatalities. Mixing alcohol and drugs with coastal activities is dangerous, with some activities riskier than others (Figure 60). Swimming/ wading, boating & PWC and falls & jumps can be especially deadly when combined with alcohol and drug consumption. Fatal incidents can be influenced by multiple factors, but some may be more common in one incident type compared to another. Rip currents are prominent contributing factors in 20% of coastal drowning deaths, but only 1% of coastal fatalities. On the other hand, precipitating medical factors and injuries dominate unintentional coastal fatalities (80%) compared to only 28% of coastal drowning deaths. Since SLSA extended its research to include all coastal fatalities, we are able to better understand the challenges facing our membership and to develop a holistic approach to managing coastal safety and resource allocation for surf lifesaving services across Australia.

Figure 60

2004/21: ALCOHOL & DRUGS IN COASTAL DEATHS Alcohol and drugs are known to contribute to 19% of drowning deaths and 15% of coastal fatalities. However, they are more prevalent in some activities compared to others. Swimming/wading, boating & PWC and falls & jumps can be especially deadly when mixed with alcohol and drugs.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

D R O W N I N G V S . F ATA L I T Y 2 0 0 4/21: C AU S A L A N A LY S I S

DROWNING

FATALITY

HOW

54%

20% WHY

WHY

28%

80%

20%

DUE TO MEDICAL FACTOR

37%

DUE TO MEDICAL/INJURY

52%

DUE TO INJURY

43%

INJURY-RELATED AGED 45-59 YEARS OLD

34%

MEDICAL-RELATED AGED 55-69 YEARS OLD

WHO

INJURY-RELATED AGED 15-29 YEARS OLD

WHO

77%

13%

NON-RESIDENTS

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

14%

NON-RESIDENTS

74%

23%

61%

19%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

ASIAN-BORN

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

ASIAN-BORN

26% LOCALS (LIVE <10KM FROM INCIDENT)

29%

30%

SWIMMERS/WADERS

LOCALS (LIVE <10KM FROM INCIDENT)

NB: May not total 100% due to unknown cases

29%

DUE TO MEDICAL FACTOR

30%

MEDICAL-RELATED AGED 60-74 YEARS OLD

53%

NOT RIP-RELATED

RIP-RELATED

DUE TO MEDICAL/INJURY

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

80%

NOT RIP-RELATED

RIP-RELATED

SECTION THREE

DROWNING ANALYSIS

27% BOATERS

C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G S N A P S H O T 2 016/21: F I V E -Y E A R R E V I E W

54%

23%

OVERSEAS-BORN

61%

11%

20%

24%

34% 15%

STATE

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

3% 29%

29% 9%

NON-RESIDENT

46%

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

RIP-RELATED

Swimming/Wading Boating Rock Fishing Snorkelling Watercraft Fall Scuba Diving Attempting a Rescue Other Unknown

SWIMMING/ WADING

21% 10%

MEDICAL/INJURY

14%

46% >5KM

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

NB: May not total 100% due to unknown cases

ACTIVITY

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

0.48

AVERAGE RATE/100,000 POP.

86%

14%

20-34 YEAR OLDS

50-69 YEAR OLDS

110

121

0.5

120 0.4 0.3

0.2

0.1 65

AVERAGE DROWNING AGE

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

120

26% 32%

136

120 Number (n)

AVERAGE DROWNING DEATHS

0.0 2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

2019/20

TREND

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

2020/21

rate/100,000 pop.

121

0.6

150

C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G S N A P S H O T 2 011/21: T E N -Y E A R R E V I E W

52%

21%

7% 35% 15%

STATE

28%

28% 9%

71%

13%

19%

26%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

OVERSEAS-BORN

NON-RESIDENT

48%

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

RIP-RELATED

Swimming/Wading Boating Rock Fishing Snorkelling Watercraft Fall Scuba Diving Attempting a Rescue Other Unknown

SWIMMING/ WADING

20% 11%

MEDICAL/INJURY

18%

43% >5KM

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

NB: May not total 100% due to unknown cases

ACTIVITY

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

AVERAGE RATE/100,000 POP.

87%

120

0.5

120 0.4 0.3

84 60

0.2 30

0.1

0.0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

DROWNING ANALYSIS

2015/16

2014/15

TREND

110

121

2013/14

SECTION THREE

136 120

117

2012/13

AVERAGE DROWNING AGE

137

119

2011/12

50-64 YEAR OLDS

0.6 137

13%

26% 24% 20-34 YEAR OLDS

150

rate/100,000 pop.

AVERAGE DROWNING DEATHS

0.49

Number (n)

120

C O A S TA L F ATA L I T Y S N A P S H O T 2 016/21: F I V E -Y E A R R E V I E W

64%

21%

8% 33% 9%

OVERSEAS- BORN

67%

STATE

36%

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

NON-RESIDENT

69%

9% 22% 19%

22%

2% 4%

Boating Swimming/Wading Non Aquatic Transport Watercraft Fall Snorkelling Scuba Diving Land-based Fishing Other Unknown

10%

BOATING

10%

6% 9%

RIP-RELATED

MEDICAL/INJURY

15%

53% >5KM

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

NB: May not total 100% due to unknown cases

ACTIVITY

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS 80

82%

18%

30-44 YEAR OLDS

55-69 YEAR OLDS

0.25 61

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

AVERAGE AGE OF DEATH

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

73 66

19% 31%

0.30

AVERAGE RATE/100,000 POP. Number (n)

AVERAGE COASTAL FATALITIES

0.25

0.00 2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

2019/20

TREND

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

2020/21

rate/100,000 pop.

C O A S TA L F ATA L I T Y S N A P S H O T 2 011/21: T E N -Y E A R R E V I E W

61%

24%

7% 29% 10%

STATE

39%

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

OVERSEAS-BORN

75%

12%

77%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

NON-RESIDENT

9% 26% 14%

26%

BOATING

7% 7%

Boating Swimming/Wading Watercraft Non Aquatic Transport Fall Snorkelling Scuba Diving Land-based Fishing Other Unknown

10%

10% 10%

Non Aquatic Transport

RIP-RELATED

MEDICAL/INJURY

14%

55% >5KM

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

NB: May not total 100% due to unknown cases

ACTIVITY

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

AVERAGE RATE/100,000 POP.

86%

0.30 61

0.15

30 0.10

0.05

0.00 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

DROWNING ANALYSIS

2017/18

2016/17

TREND

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

0.25 0.20

AVERAGE AGE OF DEATH

SECTION THREE

2012/13

55-69 YEAR OLDS

2011/12

0.35

14%

23% 33% 40-54 YEAR OLDS

rate/100,000 pop.

AVERAGE COASTAL FATALITIES

0.27

Number (n)

F E AT U R E : M A R I N E F A U N A D E AT H S

ince the production of Jaws, humans have been fascinated with marine fauna, especially elite apex predators such as sharks and crocodiles. The more we interact with their environment the more likely we are to encounter some of these magnificent creatures – this is, however, not without risk. Media reporting of animal attacks could be described as sensational – with recent calls to change terminology to be less inflammatory (e.g. use ‘bite’ instead of ‘attack’). This last year recorded more marine fauna deaths than in previous years (Figure 63), with a total of 59 being recorded since 2004/05. While a diversity of species have been responsible for these deaths (Figure 62), the vast majority (70%) were due to shark bites (Figure 62), occurred to men (90%) and were more prevalent in 15-29 year old age groups. Certain activities were more prone to marine fauna incidents compared to others. Watercraft (predominantly surfing) was the most common activity, followed by swimming/wading and then snorkelling (Figure 64). Each of

these activities presenting slightly different user groups who may be a greater risk than others (Figure 65). While these tragic and traumatic events are accidental and often unprovoked, their occurrence remains rare – especially in comparison to drowning or other fatalities that occur around our coast.

14% 32

25%

14% 3%

Figure 61

2004/21: MARINE FAUNA DEATHS BY STATE Marine fauna inhabit different environments so the risk they pose differs by location. Here we illustrate the type of animal that has caused a coastal death, and the proportion of marine fauna deaths by state.

0.04

0.040 5%

3% 2%

0.035 0.03

0.030 Rate/100,000 pop.

15%

70% SHARKS

0.020

0.02

0.015 0.01

0.010

0.01

0.005 0.00

0.000

0.00 2020/21

2019/20

2017/18

2018/19

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2011/12

2012/13

2010/11

2009/10

2007/08

2008/09

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

70%

Shark Crocodile Jellyfish Fish Stingray Sea Snake

0.025

Figure 62

Figure 63

2004/21: TYPE OF MARINE FAUNA Sharks have been responsible for most marine fauna deaths (70%), followed by crocodiles (15%), and jellyfish (5%).

2004/21: MARINE FAUNA MORTALITY RATES OVER TIME This last year recorded the highest rate (0.04/100,000 pop.) of marine fauna deaths since our records began, the previous being in 2011/12.

FEATURE

MARINE FAUNA DEATHS

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

25 22

MARINE FAUNA DEATHS

RATE/100,000 POP.

Percentage (%)

0.01

15 10

5 2 0

a rcr ate W

90% 10%

15-29 YEAR OLDS

g ing llin m ng rke im adi o w n S /W S

47%

ivi

D ba

d se ba ng d- ishi n F La

Figure 64

MARINE FAUNA DEATHS BY ACTIVITY Certain activities have recorded more marine fauna incidents compared to others. Watercraft (predominantly surfing) was the most common activity (29%), followed by swimming/wading (22%) and then snorkelling (20%).

WATERCRAFT

41%

ati

SWIMMING/WADING

38%

31%

SNORKELLING

58%

67%

SPRING

15-29 YEAR OLDS

SPRING

15-29 YEAR OLDS

SUMMER

25-39 YEAR OLDS

86%

65%

AUSTRALIAN BORN

83%

67%

AUSTRALIAN BORN

67%

73%

AUSTRALIAN BORN

WITH FRIENDS /FAMILY

50% >5KM

53%

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE 6AM-12PM MORNING

WITH FRIENDS /FAMILY

58%

77% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE 12PM-6AM AFTERNOON

WITH FRIENDS /FAMILY

83% >5KM

45%

6AM-12PM MORNING DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE 12PM-6PM AFTERNOON

Figure 65

TOP THREE ACTIVITY PROFILES Profiling fatalities helps to identify user groups that may be of greater risk. Here we illustrate the key demographic profiles of decedents for the top three activities in marine fauna incidents.

FEATURE

MARINE FAUNA DEATHS

NEW SOUTH WALE S

0.8 55 49 48

Number (n)

43 44

41 33

2% 1% >1%

0.7

0.5

0.4

29 0.3

0.2 10

11%

0.6 Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

49%

49% BEACH

29%

Beach Rock/Cliff Offshore Bay Port/Marina Coastal Pool Jetty River/Creek Other

0.1

0.0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Figure 66

Figure 67

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=707) The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for New South Wales (n=45) was higher than the 17-year average of 42, but the mortality rate (0.55/100,000 pop.) was lower than average (0.56/100,000 pop.).

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY Since 2004/05, New South Wales beaches have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=348), followed by rock/cliff (n=207) and offshore locations (n=74).

Swimming/Wading 19

Rock Fishing 13

Boating

Attempting a Rescue

Fall

42 0.56 89% 11%

Snorkelling Scuba Diving

Other

MALE

2004/21 2020/21 5

15 20 Percentage (%)

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

Figure 68

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2020/21 Since 2004/05, swimming/wading has recorded the most drowning deaths (33%), followed by rock fishing (19%) and boating (13%). This year swimming/wading was below average, while rock fishing and boating incidents were above average.

FEMALE

Unknown 0

AVERAGE RATE

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Watercraft

AVERAGE NUMBER

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

28% 20-34

27% 45-59

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS 9 3 2 4 13 4 5 2

2 6 6 2 2

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS

2 2

NUMBER

45 0.55

5 2 2 13 2

2 2 2 3 2 2 3

4 3

2 2 3 4 5 2 2 15 3 5 6

PER 100,000 POPULATION

2 2 3 7 4

2 2 3 2 3 4 2 7 8 2 3 3 4

SYDNEY

6 2 10 4 7 2 4 5 3 2 5 4 3 2 13 9 2 2 2 2 2 2

5 2 2 4

ACTIVITY 4% 7%

3 2

Lord Howe Island

29 20 17 6 6 4 5 4 3 2 21 17 17 7 5 3 15 4 4

CANBERRA

MORTALITY RATE

3 3 2 4 2 3 2

22%

20% ROCK

Attempting a Rescue Boating & PWC Fall Jump Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport

Other Rock Fishing Scuba Diving Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Unknown

78%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

Watercraft Multiple instances per activity at the same location Capital city

48%

20%

FISHING 16%

Swimming/Wading Rock Fishing Boating Watercraft Attempting a Rescue Snorkelling Fall Scuba Diving Other Unknown

LOCATION

OVERSEAS-BORN

11% 44%

25% RIP-RELATED

16%

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

44% BEACH

25% MEDICAL/INJURY

28% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

29%

42%

Beach Rock/Cliff Offshore Bay Port/Marina River/Creek

BETWEEN 1-5KM FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

QUEENSLAND

0.8

35 30

3% 2% 1%

26 25

0.5

26 22

20 22 15

18 18

20 20

0.4

0.3 13

0.2

0.1

0.0

Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

0.6 29

25 Number (n)

36 0.7

47%

BEACH

37%

2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Beach Offshore Bay Rock/Cliff Port/Marina Jetty Other

Figure 69

Figure 70

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=391) The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for Queensland (n=36) and the mortality rate (0.69/100,000 pop.) were considerably higher than the 17-year averages of 23 deaths and 0.50/100,000 pop.

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY Since 2004/05, Queensland beaches have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=184), followed by offshore (n=146) and bay waters (n=15).

AVERAGE NUMBER

Swimming/Wading

23 0.50

Boating 17

Snorkelling

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Watercraft

AVERAGE RATE

Fall Scuba Diving

Attempting a Rescue

86% 14% MALE

Rock Fishing

2004/21

Other

2020/21

Unknown 0

FEMALE

Percentage (%)

Figure 71

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2020/21 Since 2004/05, swimming/wading has recorded the most drowning deaths (29%), followed by boating (27%) and snorkelling (17%). This year swimming/ wading, boating and watercraft were above average, while snorkelling incidents were below average.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

35% 20-39

24% 60-74

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS 5 5 3

Torres Strait

2 4 3 6 4 10

2 2

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS

Attempting a Rescue Boating & PWC Fall Jump Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport Other Rock Fishing Scuba Diving Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Unknown Watercraft Multiple instances per activity at the same location Capital city

NUMBER

MORTALITY RATE

0.69

PER 100,000 POPULATION

ACTIVITY 6%

2 2

4 3 2 3

SWIMMING /WADING

2 2

42%

11%

2 4 2

Swimming/Wading Boating Watercraft Attempting a Rescue Fall Snorkelling

2 2 2 6 3

31%

3 2

2 2 2

3 3

3 2 4 4 7

2 7

7 2 3

2 3 6 4 6 2 2 2

BRISBANE 2 2 2 2 6 23

3 3 3 2 7 2 2 22 8

LOCATION 6%

51% OVERSEAS-BORN

17%

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

29% MEDICAL/INJURY

55% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

28%

55% BEACH

56%

55% Beach Offshore Port/Marina Bay River/Creek

GREATER THAN 5KM FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

VICTORIA

0.5 24

14%

21 0.4

0.3

15 12

Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

19 Number (n)

4% 2%

0.2

51%

14%

51%

BEACH

0.1

Beach Rock/Cliff Offshore Bay Jetty Port/Marina

15% 0.0

0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Figure 72

Figure 73

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=276) The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for Victoria (n=21) and the mortality rate (0.32/100,000 pop.) were considerably higher than the 17-year averages of 16 deaths and 0.28/100,000 pop.

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY Since 2004/05, Victorian beaches have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=141), followed by rock/cliff (n=41) and offshore locations (n=39).

AVERAGE NUMBER

Swimming/Wading

16 0.28

Boating 8

Watercraft

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Rock Fishing Fall

Snorkelling

Scuba Diving

85% MALE

Attempting a Rescue

Other

15%

2004/21 2020/21

Unknown 0

FEMALE

20 25 30 35 Percentage (%)

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

Figure 74

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2020/21 Since 2004/05, swimming/wading has recorded the most drowning deaths (32%), followed by boating (19%) and watercraft (8%). This year watercraft were below average, boating was equal to, and swimming/wading and rescue incidents were above average.

AVERAGE RATE

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

37% 25-44

22% 55-69

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS NUMBER

21 0.32

MELBOURNE 2 3 4 7 7 13 2 2 2 3 5

PER 100,000 POPULATION

2 20 8 6 4 2 2

ACTIVITY

2 4 2

2 3 2 2 5

2 6 9 2 2 2

8 2

10% 10%

2 3 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 2 3 2 3 3 5 2 2 2 2 3

42%

19%

Attempting a Rescue Boating & PWC Fall Jump Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport

Other Rock Fishing Scuba Diving Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Unknown

74%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

MORTALITY RATE

42%

SWIMMING/ WADING

Watercraft Multiple instances per activity at the same location Capital city

Swimming/Wading Boating Fall Snorkelling Attempting a Rescue

19%

64%

LOCATION

OVERSEAS-BORN 5%

18%

21%

22%

37% >5KM

RIP-RELATED

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

MEDICAL/INJURY

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

14%

67% BEACH

62%

67%

Beach Offshore Rock/Cliff Port/Marina Other

GREATER THAN 5KM FROM SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

WESTERN AUSTR ALIA

1.5

30 28

25 21

21 21 0.9

16 15

13 13

0.6

10 8

0.3

Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

1.2

20 Number (n)

3% 3% 1% <1% 36%

23%

36% BEACH

0.0

0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Beach Offshore Rock/Cliff Bay Port/Marina Jetty River/Creek Other

28%

Figure 75

Figure 76

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=298) The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for Western Australia (n=21) and the mortality rate (0.79/100,000 pop.) were higher than the 17-year averages of 18 deaths and 0.73/100,000 pop.

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY Since 2004/05, Western Australian beaches have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=106), followed by offshore (n=84) and rock/cliff locations (n=69).

18 0.73

Swimming/Wading 14

Rock Fishing Snorkelling

Watercraft

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Fall

MALE

Attempting a Rescue

2004/21

Other

2020/21

Unknown 0

15 20 Percentage (%)

FEMALE

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

Figure 77

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2020/21 Since 2004/05, boating has recorded the most drowning deaths (25%), followed by swimming/wading (23%) and rock fishing (14%). This year swimming/wading and rock fishing were below average, while boating and watercraft were above average.

87% 13%

Scuba Diving

AVERAGE RATE

AVERAGE NUMBER

Boating

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

30% 20-34

24% 55-69

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS 5

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS

Ashmore Reef

NUMBER

MORTALITY RATE

21 0.79

PER 100,000 POPULATION

ACTIVITY 2 2 2

3 2 2 4 6 2 2 2 2 3 4 2

2 3

2 2 3

10%

29%

Boating Swimming/Wading Watercraft Rock Fishing Fall Scuba Diving Attempting a Rescue Other

BOATING

10%

19% 14%

2 2 2 2 4 3 7 3 2

2 3 8 2 3 9 4 6 2 2

PERTH

LOCATION

6 7 2

2 2

3 3 3

4 2 3 3

2 9 2

19%

43%

12% RIP-RELATED

22%

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

34%

OFFSHORE 33%

MEDICAL/INJURY

62% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

43%

67%

Offshore Beach Rock/Cliff Bay

GREATER THAN 5KM FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

SOUTH AUSTR ALIA

1.0 5% 13

0.8

12 10

Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

Number (n)

11 9

8 7

4 3

50%

0.4 5

1% 10%

0.6

BEACH

29%

0.2

Beach Offshore Rock/Cliff Bay Jetty Port/Marina

0.0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Figure 78

Figure 79

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=131)

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY

The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for South Australia (n=8) was equal to the 17-year average, while the mortality rate (0.45/100,000 pop.) was slightly lower than average (0.46/100,000 pop.).

Since 2004/05, South Australian beaches have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=66), followed by offshore (n=39) and rock/cliff locations (n=13).

Swimming/Wading Boating

Fall

8 0.46

Snorkelling Watercraft

Attempting a Rescue

82% 18% MALE

Rock Fishing

Other

2004/21 2020/21

Unknown 0

20 Percentage (%)

FEMALE

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

Figure 80

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2020/21 Since 2004/05, swimming/wading has recorded the most drowning deaths (38%), followed by boating (27%) and fall-related incidents (8%). This year swimming/wading and boating were below average, while fall and scuba diving incidents were above average.

AVERAGE RATE

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Scuba Diving

AVERAGE NUMBER

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

21% 15-29

26% 45-59

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS NUMBER

2 2

MORTALITY RATE

2 2

0.45

PER 100,000 POPULATION

2 12

ADELAIDE

2 2

10 3 5

ACTIVITY

Attempting a Rescue Boating & PWC Fall Jump Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport Other Rock Fishing Scuba Diving Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Unknown

3 6

12%

25%

13%

Watercraft Multiple instances per activity at the same location Capital city

25% BOATING

25%

56%

44%

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

OVERSEAS-BORN

76%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

25%

Swimming/Wading Boating Scuba Diving Attempting a Rescue Fall

LOCATION 12%

NON-RESIDENT 38% 25%

18% RIP-RELATED

15%

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

21% MEDICAL/INJURY

56% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

38%

OFFSHORE 25%

50%

Offshore Beach Rock/Cliff Jetty

GREATER THAN 5KM FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

TA S M A N I A

2.0

3% 2%

12%

Number (n)

1.5 6

6 5

5 4

4 3

1.0

Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

35%

19%

OFFSHORE

Offshore Beach Bay Rock/Cliff Port/Marina Jetty River/Creek

24%

0.5 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Figure 81

Figure 82

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=92)

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY

The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for Tasmania (n=4) and the mortality rate (0.74/100,000 pop.) were lower than the 17-year average of five deaths and 1.06/100,000 pop.

Since 2004/05, Tasmanian offshore waters have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=32), followed by beaches (n=22) and bay locations (n=17).

AVERAGE NUMBER

Boating

5 1.06

Swimming/Wading Fall

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Rock Fishing Watercraft

Scuba Diving

Attempting a Rescue

MALE

1 6

Other Unknown

2004/21 2020/21

7 0

FEMALE

30 20 25 Percentage (%)

Figure 83

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2019/21 Since 2004/05, boating has recorded the most drowning deaths (41%), followed equally by swimming/wading and fall-related incidents (12% each). Over the last two years, boating was below average, while fall and swimming/wading incidents were above average.

88% 12%

Snorkelling

AVERAGE RATE

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

39% 25-44

28% 55-69

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS NUMBER

3 2

MORTALITY RATE

0.74

PER 100,000 POPULATION

2 2

HOBART

9 2 2 3

2 Attempting a Rescue Boating & PWC Fall Jump Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport

7 2 2

Other Rock Fishing Scuba Diving Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Unknown

Watercraft Multiple instances per activity at the same location Capital city

2019/21 ACTIVITY 10% 10%

30%

10%

30% FALL

10%

20% 10%

84%

16%

AUSTRALIAN-BORN

OVERSEAS-BORN

91%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

Fall Swimming/Wading Rock Fishing Boating Watercraft Scuba Diving Other

2019/21 LOCATION 10% 30%

NON-RESIDENT 20%

13% RIP-RELATED

34%

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

38%

30% BEACH

20%

MEDICAL/INJURY

78% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

90%

20%

Beach Offshore Bay Port/Marina Rock/Cliff

GREATER THAN 5KM FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

NORTHERN TERRITORY

3.0

Number (n)

2.5

5 4

2.0

1.5

2 2 1 0

1.0

2 1

1 0

7% Rate (per 100,000 pop.)

41%

17%

OFFSHORE

0.5 19%

0.0 2020/21

2019/20

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

Offshore Rock/Cliff Beach Bay Port/Marina Jetty Coastal Pool

Figure 84

Figure 85

2004/21: COASTAL DROWNING DEATH TRENDS (N=42)

2004/21: DROWNING LOCATION CATEGORY

The number of coastal drowning deaths in 2020/21 for Northern Territory (n=1) and the mortality rate (0.41/100,000 pop.) were lower than the 17-year average of two deaths and 1.06/100,000 pop.

Since 2004/05, Northern Territory offshore waters have recorded the most drowning deaths (n=17), followed by rock/cliff (n=8) and beach locations (n=7).

2 1.06

Swimming/Wading Attempting a Rescue

Fall

Jumps

Snorkelling

Scuba Diving

PER 100,000 POPULATION

Unknown

12 10

2004/21 2016/21 20 30 Percentage (%)

2004/21: PROPORTION OF DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY COMPARED TO 2016/21 Since 2004/05, boating has recorded the most drowning deaths (41%), followed by swimming/wading (10%). Over the last five years, boating was below average, while swimming/wading incidents were above average.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

FEMALE

Figure 86

88% 12% MALE

Other

AVERAGE RATE

AVERAGE NUMBER

Boating

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS

38% 30-44

28% 50-64

YEAR OLDS

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

DROWNING SNAPSHOT

2020/21 COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS

2004/21 COASTAL DROWNING LOCATIONS

NUMBER

3 2

MORTALITY RATE

DARWIN

0.41

PER 100,000 POPULATION

3 3 3 2 2

2016/21 ACTIVITY 12%

Attempting a Rescue Boating & PWC Fall Jump Land-based Fishing Non Aquatic Transport

Other Rock Fishing Scuba Diving Snorkelling Swimming/Wading Unknown

12%

Watercraft Multiple instances per activity at the same location Capital city

38%

13%

BOATING

Boating Swimming/Wading Jump Other Unknown

25%

79% AUSTRALIAN-BORN

88%

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENT

21% 12%

2016/21 LOCATION

OVERSEAS-BORN

12% 25%

NON-RESIDENT

13%

10% RIP-RELATED

40%

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

25%

38%

25%

BEACH

MEDICAL/INJURY

50%

64% >5KM

DISTANCE TO SLS SERVICE

25%

Beach Offshore Port/Marina Bay Other

GREATER THAN 5KM FROM A SURF LIFE SAVING SERVICE

GLOSSARY

Adult For the purpose of this report, adult refers to a person 16 years of age and over. Advanced Resuscitation Techniques A certification providing the skills and knowledge required to use specialised equipment in the provision of resuscitation in line with the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) guidelines. ALS Australian Lifeguard Service. Apply First Aid A certification providing the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a casualty. Attempting a rescue Trying to retrieve a person in distress and deliver them to a place of safety. AWSC Australian Water Safety Council also Australian Water Safety Conference. AWSS Australian Water Safety Strategy. Bay A body of water partially enclosed by land but with a wide mouth, affording access to the sea. Beach A wave-deposited accumulation of sediment –usually sand, but ranging in size up to boulders, deposited between the upper swash limit and wave base. Blackspot An area where incidents are concentrated and a high probability/risk of ongoing recurrence. Boating Using either a powered vessel or sailing boat for recreation and/or fishing. Bystander A person who is present at an incident but not part of it initially. Coastal Describes the foreshore, seabed, coastal water and air space above a large body of water (harbour/bay/inlet), including areas up to 3nm offshore and of which the landward boundary is the line of mean high water, except where that line crosses a river/inlet, the landward boundary at that point shall be the point upstream that is calculated by multiplying the width of the river/ inlet mouth by five. (Adopted from the Resource Management Amendment Act 1993 New Zealand). Coastal drowning death A fatality arising from the process of respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/immersion in liquid where the location of the drowning is considered coastal. Coastal fatality A fatality arising from circumstances other than drowning (e.g. medical condition, injury, suicide, marine creature) where the location of the death is considered coastal. COD Cause of death. Crude drowning rate A comparative rate of mortality to the size of the population for a given area or activity. Dangerous surf warning An alert issued by the Bureau of Meteorology indicating that surf conditions in an area are unsafe for coastal activities. The warnings are calculated based on wave height, swell direction and swell period and must exceed the predetermined limitations to be in effect. Drowning The process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion/immersion in liquid; outcomes are classified as

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

death, morbidity and no morbidity. Drowning death A fatal drowning incident arising from the process of respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/ immersion in liquid. Drugs A medicine or other substance which has a physiological effect when ingested or otherwise introduced to the body. The category includes therapeutic, over-the-counter and illicit drugs. Emergency response An action taken by an SLS entity in response to a call for assistance from an emergency management organisation. Falls (trips/slips) Events that result in a person coming to rest inadvertently on the ground or other lower level. Fatality A fatal incident arising from circumstances other than drowning (eg. Medical condition, injury, self-harm, marine creature). First Aid Assessments and interventions that can be performed by a bystander (or by the victim) with minimal to no equipment. Fishing The act of attempting to catch fish from anywhere except coastal rock platforms. Foreign ethnicity Describes an individual who identifies with a cultural group other than Australian based on heritage, language or shared customs. This identification is extrapolated from reported data such as the individuals’ country of birth and the main language spoken at home. Hazard A source of potential harm. ILS International Life Saving Federation. Incident Any unplanned event requiring lifesaving services intervention. Inland An area that is beyond the line of mean high water or within a landward distance of five times the width of the coastal inlet/ river mouth. Inshore The coastal water area within 500m of the low tide area of the foreshore. Intentional fatality Any intentional incident, including homicide and self-harm related incidents. International Describes an individual who is confirmed to reside overseas and/or is a temporary visitor to Australia. IRB Inflatable rescue boat. IRD Incident report database. A web-based portal used by SLS services to electronically record incident reports. Jetty An artificial structure that projects out into the water from land. JRB Jet rescue boat. Jump(ing) The activity of launching off a cliff, rock platform, pier, jetty. Aka tombstoning (UK/Europe/North America). Lake An inland body of water surrounded by land. Lifeguard An individual who undertakes patrols at a beach or another aquatic environment. He/she is typically a salaried member, qualified in public safety and aquatic rescue.

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

Lifejacket A buoyant or inflatable garment or device designed to keep a person afloat in water and increase their likelihood of survival. Lifesaving Service A coordinated group that exists to provide aquatic safety services to the public. This includes Surf Life Saving Clubs, Lifeguards, SurfCom, RWCs, RIBs, JRBs, ORBs, Rescue Helicopters and 4WD units. Local Government Area (LGA) Also known as local councils, LGAs include cities, towns, shires, municipalities or boroughs. Marina A man-made boat basin having sea walls or breakwaters and offering dockage and other services for water vessels. Marine fauna Macro-organisms (mostly animals) that live within marine systems (e.g., fish species including sharks and rays, estuarine crocodiles, blue-ringed octopus, jellyfish species, sea snakes, etc.). Medical For the purpose of this report, medical refers to an aquatic incident that was caused by a medical episode, e.g. a heart attack or epileptic seizure. NCIS National Coronial Information System. NCSS The National Coastal Safety Survey conducted annually to gather information about Australian coastal participation, swimming ability, risk perception, behaviours and attitudes to coastal safety. Non aquatic fatality Non-aquatic fatalities refer to non-drowning related incidents which have occurred at a coastal location but not in the water. Non aquatic transport Any form of transport that is not meant for the water such as airplanes, bicycles, and motor vehicles. Offshore Describes the coastal water area beyond the surf zone and inshore area from 500m to 200nm. Ocean The seabed, water and air space above the water between 3nm and 12nm (the Australian Territorial Sea) offshore. Ocean drowning death A fatality arising from the process of respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/immersion in liquid where the location of the drowning is considered ocean. Ocean fatality A fatality arising from various circumstances occurring (e.g. medical condition, injury, suicide, marine creature) where the location of the death is considered ocean. ORB Offshore rescue boat. Other An uncommon known activity not otherwise listed (e.g., paragliding, jogging). Patrol Service undertaken to monitor activities in/around an aquatic environment and respond accordingly through either preventative actions or rescue operations. Patrol flags Red and yellow horizontally divided flags which are set after performing a risk assessment to determine the most suitable area for swimming. The flags identify a zone for swimming and bodyboarding within a patrolled location. Patrolled location A location supervised by a lifesaving service. Preventative action Direct action taken to reduce or eliminate the probability of a specific rescue, first aid or other reportable incident from happening in the future. PWC Personal water craft, also known as jet ski. Rescue The retrieval of a person in distress, delivering them to a place of safety and the application of first aid and basic life support as may be required. Resuscitation Prevention or restoration of life by establishing and maintaining a person’s airway, breathing and circulation. RIB Rigid-hull inflatable boat.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTR ALIA

Rip current A seaward flowing current of water moving through a surf zone. River A natural stream of water flowing into an ocean, lake or other body of water. Rock/cliff A rock platform that may or may not have a high steep face. Rock fishing The act of attempting to catch fish from a coastal rock platform. Rock shelf A section of rock above or below the water level that projects out from the coast. RWC Rescue water craft. Scuba diving Swimming underwater with the aid of scuba equipment for recreational or commercial purposes. Service season and hours Vary between states due to climatic factors, but in the context of this report, the season is for the period July 2020 to June 2021. Snorkelling Swimming with a snorkel and face mask. Includes freediving and spearfishing. Sovereign waters The seabed, water and air space above the water between 12NM and 200NM (the Australian Contiguous, Exclusive Economic and Fishing Zones) offshore. Sovereign waters drowning death A fatality arising from of the process of respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/ immersion in liquid where the location of the drowning is considered within sovereign waters. Sovereign waters fatality A fatality arising from various circumstances occurring (e.g. medical condition, injury, suicide, marine creature) where the location of the death is considered within sovereign waters. SurfCom SLS radio communications centre that assists in managing the communications of lifesaving operations and data collection. Surf lifesaver An individual who undertakes patrols at a beach or other aquatic environment. They are typically a non-salaried member qualified in public safety and aquatic rescue. Surf Life Saving Club A SLS affiliated not-for-profit organisation that has volunteer members who provide coastal safety services to the community. Swimming Moving through water by moving the body or parts of the body. Territorial seas The seaward limits of Australia’s maritime zones, from the coastline to 12nm from the low tide line. Total Service Plan An assessment of current and future lifesaving resources, trends, national blackspots and coastal safety issues combined with evidence-based mitigation strategies to address these issues. Toxicity The degree to which a chemical substance or a particular mixture of substances is toxic or poisonous to an organism. In the context of this report, toxicity refers to alcohol or drug use by a victim. Unintentional fatality Deaths other than drowning deaths (such as medical incidents, injury, accidents, or marine creature), excluding homicide and self-harm related incidents. Wading Walking through water while partially immersed. Watercraft A piece of non-powered recreational equipment used in water. Examples include surfboards, stand-up paddle boards, bodyboards, windsurfers or kayaks.

GLOSSARY

REFERENCE

METHODOLOGY The National Coastal Safety Report 2021 contains information on Australian community behaviours and attitudes to the coast; SLS capability and membership capacity; rescues and emergency response; and coastal drowning deaths and other fatalities that occurred in Australia’s waters for the period of 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021. This information is correct as of 2 August 2021. All care is taken to ensure the statistical information included within this report is correct. However, pending the outcome of ongoing coronial investigations and as SLS state/territory entities update their operational information, this data may be amended. Data in figures may not always add up to 100% due to rounding. Total mortality rates were calculated using the number of deaths divided by the population (per 100,000) from Australian Bureau of Statistics, while comparative activity mortality rates used the number of coastal participants (per 100,000 participants) identified in the National Coastal Safety Survey for a given state.

DROWNING & FATALITY DATA ANALYSIS SLSA collects incident data from SurfGuard, the IRD, SurfCom, the National Coronial Information System (NCIS) and by monitoring media reports for coastal and ocean incidents. The information is verified with the assistance of each state/ territory SLS entity and compiled for analysis by SLSA’s Coastal Safety Department. The following variables are used to match fatal incidents from more than one data source: incident date; location; age; gender; and incident description. The NCIS is considered the ‘gold standard’ when there is a discrepancy in the detail collected from different data sources. Deaths are excluded as a coastal drowning if they are reported as ‘intentional deaths’, they occur at inland locations, or ‘drowning/ immersion’ is not a contributory factor as noted by the coroner. Coastal incidents that are deemed intentional or not due to drowning/immersion are logged as coastal fatalities instead. The authors are responsible for the use made of the data in this report.

THE AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY ANALYSIS Information about community swimming ability, behaviours and attitudes to coastal safety, risk perceptions, safety strategies and rescues was gathered from the SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey. Conducted by Omnipoll Market Research, the latest survey was run online over the period 8 - 25 April 2021 among a national sample of 3,050 respondents aged 16 and above. The study was carried out in compliance with AS-ISO 20252 Market, Social and Opinion Research. To reflect the population distribution, results were post-weighted (on age, gender, geographic strata and education) and projected to Australian Bureau of Statistics data. The Australian population aged 16 and above (the reference population for this survey) is 18,712,000.

DROWNING DATA LIMITATIONS Over years of investigation as part of the NCIS process, some cases are amended prior to their closure, resulting in changes to the classification of cases in our datasets. Therefore, the number of coastal drowning deaths published in this report may be different from annual totals previously reported. To produce a timely report on the current year’s data we acknowledge that these figures will change. Each year, the changes that occur in the previous year’s report will be made transparent. The data in this current report are not the final figures as 86% of 2020/21 coastal drowning deaths and 69% of 2020/21 coastal fatalities recorded remain open cases and 81% of 2021/21 cases do not yet have a cause of death (COD) listed. Once NCIS closes a case, SLSA modifies those with unknown intent and those where the cause of death is not drowning, from ‘coastal drowning’ to ‘coastal fatality’. Bars of two different colours are used to illustrate the incidents where a COD has not been listed on NCIS in Figures 41 and 53. The incidents are included in our annual totals and analysis, and they will provisionally remain there until a COD is listed other than drowning/immersion.

CAPABILITY AND RESCUE ANALYSIS SurfGuard, the Incident Report Database (IRD) and SurfCom management system (SurfCom) are web-based applications and part of a suite of applications that enable members, clubs, branches, state offices and SLSA to enter and access SLS operational (including rescues and first aids), capability (including assets and services), educational and administrative data. Information was extracted from SurfGuard to identify how many rescues were performed by volunteers, lifeguards and lifesaving services during 2020/21; and how many active surf lifesavers and award holders there were during 2020/21. The data was verified by SLS state/territory entities. Information about assets and services were gathered from each SLS state/ territory entity.

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CHANGES FROM PREVIOUS REPORTS As part of the NCIS investigation process, some cases are amended prior to their closure and have resulted in changes to our datasets. This year SLSA has commenced a thorough review of its coastal and ocean fatality database to update all cases to the same inclusion standards. See table on next page.

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFET Y REPORT 2021

CHANGES IN THE NUMBER OF COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED

2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21

2017 NCSR 96 107 115 104 106 105 91 117 134 85 114 136 112

2018 NCSR 89 95 102 89 85 80 69 114 118 80 108 128 110 107

2019 NCSR 89 96 102 89 88 85 69 114 118 82 105 128 119 107 122

2020 NCSR 89 96 102 89 88 85 69 113 118 84 105 130 116 110 122 125

electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without prior permission from Surf Life Saving Australia. For enquiries concerning reproduction, contact SLSA on: phone 02 9215 8000; email: info@slsa.asn.au

2021 NCSR 97 108 119 103 112 106 91 119 137 84 117 137 120 110 121 120 136

Every attempt has been made to trace and acknowledge copyright, but in some cases this may not have been possible. Surf Life Saving Australia apologises for any accidental infringements and would welcome any information to redress the situation. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS SLSA wishes to thank the following people and organisations for their contribution to the National Coastal Safety Report 2021: the Australian Government: Department of Health; National Coronial Information System: Leanne Daking & Jessica Bryan; Department of Justice and Community Safety; Omnipoll: Frederic Anne; Royal Life Saving Society Australia: Alison Mahony; SLS state centres, branches, clubs, support operations and ALS; SLSA major national corporate partners: DHL, Isuzu, Ampol and Westpac.

SUGGESTED CITATION: Surf Life Saving Australia (2021). National Coastal Safety Report 2021. SLSA: Sydney.

This report was compiled by Shane Daw, General Manager Coastal Safety; Dr Jasmin Lawes, Researcher; Belinda Cooper, Project Coordinator Coastal Safety; Jessica Ledger, Research Assistant; Jamie Findlay, Lifesaving Operations Manager; Luke Strasiotto, Lifesaving Officer; Kirk Patton, Coastal Safety Support Officer. Cover Image: Shane Daw. Design: Melissa Conchar. Maps: John Frith, Flat Earth Mapping.

REFERENCES 1. Cooney, Daw, Brander, Ellis & Lawes (2020) Coastal Safety Brief: Rip Currents. Surf Life Saving Australia: Sydney. Accessed 21 July 2021, https://issuu.com/surflifesavingaustralia/docs/ csb_rip_currents_report_2020 2. Brander, Dominey-Howes, Champion, Vecchio, & Brighton, B. (2013). Brief Communication: A new perspective on the Australian rip current hazard. Natural hazards and earth system sciences, 13(6), 1687-1690. Accessed 21 July 2021 https://nhess. copernicus.org/articles/13/1687/2013/nhess-13-1687-2013.pdf 3. Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2021, Australian Demographic Statistic, accessed 28 July 2021, https://stat.data.abs.gov.au/ Index.aspx?DataSetCode=ERP_QUARTERLY 4. SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021). 5. Newspoll/Omnipoll Online Omnibus April 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021. 6. SLSA Annual Reports (2009-2020).

CONTACT INFORMATION SLS receives Australian Government funding to commence valuable initiatives and programs. However, we rely on the generosity of the community and corporate support to ensure they continue. To help Surf Life Saving please donate to: Surf Life Saving Foundation— slsfoundation.com.au For more information: Surf Life Saving Australia—sls.com.au Surf Life Saving New South Wales—surflifesaving.com.au Surf Life Saving Northern Territory—lifesavingnt.com.au Surf Life Saving Queensland—lifesaving.com.au Surf Life Saving South Australia—surflifesavingsa.com.au Surf Life Saving Tasmania—slst.asn.au Life Saving Victoria—lsv.com.au Surf Life Saving Western Australia—mybeach.com.au

© 2021 SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA This publication is copyright. Except as expressly provided in the Copyright Act 1968 and the Copyright Amendment Act 2006, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted by any means (including

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C O A S TA L D R O W N I N G & F ATA L I T Y S N A P S H OT

MALE FATAL COASTAL INCIDENTS

FEMALE

Location

AT THE BEACH

ROCK/CLIFF

AT LEAST 5KM FROM A LIFESAVING SERVICE

OFFSHORE Activity

20%

SWIMMING/ WADING

WATERCRAFT

18% BOATING

16 36

FALLS

INTENTIONAL FATALITIES ACCOUNT FOR 18%

GOVERNMENT PARTNER

52 88 6

NB: Arrows indicate change from previous year

MAJOR NATIONAL PARTNERS