COMBINED forces for safety, maritime authorities and first responders came together to launch the 2025-26 boating season earlier this month.

NSW Maritime, NSW Police Marine Area Command, Marine Rescue NSW, and Surf Life Saving NSW joined forces to highlight the unity, strength and capability needed to keep waterways safe. 

Climate forecasts are for a warm, wet spring and summer, which will bring plenty of great opportunities to enjoy our waterways, but also a higher risk of storms.

This means it will be particularly important that before setting out people take the time to check weather forecasts, and stay aware of changing conditions while on the water.

Of the 16 deaths on NSW Waterways in the last 12 months only three were confirmed to be wearing lifejackets that were in good condition and properly fitted.

Over the last 12 months NSW Maritime boating safety officers conducted around 46,000 vessel safety checks resulting in nearly 1,930 fines and over 5,230 official cautions.

Concerningly, people not carrying, not wearing, or not having properly serviced, or appropriate lifejackets remains the top offence in the state, representing 27 per cent of official actions.

Marine Area Command has issued more than 2700 legal actions between 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025.

In 2024, Marine Rescue NSW crews across the state completed 4,735 search and rescue missions, including 1,364 emergency responses, safely returning 10,539 people to shore.

Marine Rescue NSW radio operators kept watch over almost 285,000 people on board more than 76,000 logged on vessels.

All boaters are encouraged to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW before spending a day on the water. It is quick and easy to Log On via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16. It only takes a minute to protect a lifetime. 

NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said he wanted to make it the safest season yet.

“A cracking day on the water can quickly turn treacherous and stormy,” he said.

“Keep an eye on the conditions – and also look out for each other, especially when waterways are crowded during the holidays.

“Over our pre-season safety blitz Operation Check the Decks last weekend people not having or wearing an appropriate life jacket again topped the list of offences statewide– a lifejacket is a simple, easy safety measure – but it can only save your life if you’re wearing it.”

NSW Police Force Marine Area Commander, Superintendent Joseph McNulty said officers will be actively monitoring all waterways – from coastal zones to inland lakes – to ensure a safe environment for all water users.

“Reckless, dangerous or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated,” he said.

“Drug and alcohol testing and safety inspections will be carried out throughout the season and particularly over the long weekend.

“Before heading out, skippers should check your vessel’s condition, understand its limits, and operate within them.”

Further Log On/Off information can be found on the Marine Rescue website here

For the latest safety information please go to: https://www.lifejacketwearit.com.au/  

For more information on boating in NSW visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/boating-and-marine  

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