Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is calling for feedback on two options to simplify and expand lifejacket requirements on NSW waterways.
Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance said on average, more than seven out of 10 people presumed drowned in recreational boating incidents over the 10 years to 2019–20 were not wearing a lifejacket.
“Lifejackets are without a doubt the most important piece of safety equipment for survival in boating incidents where people are forced into the water,” Mr Constance said.
“We want to hear from NSW boaters on the two new lifejacket options that have been developed, because we need to make the law easier for people to understand and save more lives on our waterways,” he said.
“The first option would require mandatory wearing of lifejackets by adults on vessels less than six metres when underway, and at all times for vessels less than six metres when boating alone, on alpine waters or between sunset and sunrise.”
Mr Constance said the second option would require the mandatory wearing of lifejackets by adults on vessels less than six metres in enclosed waters when underway; on all vessels in open waters in the open area of the vessel when underway; and at all times when boating alone, on alpine waters or between sunset and sunrise.
The Minister said that under both options, children under the age of 12 would be required to wear a lifejacket at all times when on a vessel less than six metres and in the open area of a vessel greater than six metres that was underway.
He said the proposed changes were part of TfNSW’s draft Maritime Safety Plan 2026 which was to outline the Agency’s plans for maritime safety over the next five years, and support the goal of zero boating fatalities and serious injuries by 2056.
Mr Constance said people could have a say on the lifejacket reform options and the Safety Plan until 24 September.
The 32-page draft Maritime Safety Plan 2026 can be accessed on this PS News link where comments on the proposal can also be lodged.
