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Safeguarding the community Enjoy the beach and ocean with confidence 

  • Beach and aerial surveillance. $4.4 million funding in 2025/26 to Surf Life Saving WA to provide: 
    • Personal shark deterrents for surfers and divers. The State Government has introduced a world-first shark deterrent rebate providing Western Australians with a $200 subsidy on scientifically proven personal shark deterrent devices.
    • Beach enclosures. Beach enclosures provide a protected swimming area featuring a physical barrier to reduce the risk of a shark encounter and are designed to be non-lethal towards marine life. Eight beach enclosures have been installed with the assistance of the State Government and are currently in place. 
    • Surfing WA partnership. A shark mitigation partnership with Surfing WA provides funding for jet skis and drones for event patrols, as well as free first-aid training that is tailored specifically for surfers. 

    People kayaking on a wide river with lush green trees and buildings in the background on a clear day.People kayaking on a wide river with lush green trees and buildings in the background on a clear day.

    Rapid and effective response

    Operational responses that are quick and effective 

    • Shark Response Unit. A specialised Shark Response Unit (SRU) has been developed within the State Government to respond to shark incidents and work with other first responders to improve warning notifications and responses, so they are continually improved. 
    • Beach Emergency Number (BEN) signs. BEN signs are being installed at key coastal locations across the State to provide specific location information to help improve emergency response times. 
    • Legislative ban on shark cage diving for tourism and other activities which may change the behaviour of sharks. 
    • Whale carcass management. Collaboration across government departments and land managers to tow carcasses that are adrift, when conditions are suitable, and a program to trial additional towing options. Where possible, small whale carcasses will be towed, when removal by land is not practical. 
    Man fishing on a sandy beach with a fishing rod, facing the blue ocean under a clear sky. Rocky coastline visible in the background.Man fishing on a sandy beach with a fishing rod, facing the blue ocean under a clear sky. Rocky coastline visible in the background.

    Science and research

    Improving our understanding of shark movements and behaviour in WA waters 

    • Extended shark monitoring network. Our world-class Shark Monitoring Network provides near real-time alerts of tagged sharks when they swim within range of a shark monitoring receiver. The receiver network is located between Perth metropolitan area (including the Swan Canning Estuary) and Esperance. The receivers use the latest generation of digital receiver technology, which have an improved detection range, connect to the digital phone network and use solar power with a rechargeable battery.
    • Shark tagging. Increased shark tagging to make the most of our Shark Monitoring Network as a public safety and notification tool. Our tagging program primarily focuses on white and bull sharks, but also includes tiger sharks. These target species are considered high risk as they are most frequently involved in serious shark bite incidents.
    • Scientific non-lethal SMART drumline trial.  A two-year trial of non-lethal SMART drumlines, based in Gracetown was independently evaluated by the WA Chief Scientist. It was determined that the technology was not effective as a shark mitigation measure in Western Australian conditions. 
    • Science-based approach.
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      • Whale shark swimming gracefully underwater, displaying spotted patterns, beneath a rippling surface of deep blue ocean.
      • Whale shark swimming gracefully underwater, displaying spotted patterns, beneath a rippling surface of deep blue ocean.
      • Whale shark swimming gracefully underwater, displaying spotted patterns, beneath a rippling surface of deep blue ocean.

      Explore more

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