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With the support of the Federal Government, Royal Life Saving Society - Australia has today released new national guidelines for inland waterway safety.

A 20-year analysis by Royal Life Saving found that rivers and lakes are prominent locations for unintentional fatal drownings. Between 2002 and 2022, 2,021 people drowned in rivers, creeks, lakes, and dams, averaging 101 drowning deaths per year.

TheGuidelines for Inland Waterway Safety provide a best practice framework for water and landowners to collaborate with community agencies and stakeholders using practical steps and strategies to reduce the risk of drowning and aquatic injury at inland waterways.

Developed in response to the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030, which aims to halve drowning rates in inland waterways by 2030, the guidelines draw on two decades of research, coronial recommendations, legal findings, policy reviews, and extensive public consultation.

The guidelines provide resources and practical solutions for decision making about public rescue equipment, safety signage, designated swimming areas, and community education.

Emphasising the importance of these guidelines, Royal Life Saving’s General Manager - Capability and Industry, RJ Houston stated “inland waterways provide substantial health, social, and economic benefits, but reducing drowning and aquatic injuries is a top priority. Adoption of these voluntary guidelines will improve community resilience and make inland swimming and recreation areas safer for all.

“The guidelines aim to protect Australians from the risks associated with living, working and recreating in and around inland waterways. They include detailed risk management information, community resilience strategies, and a framework for multisectoral collaboration in drowning prevention planning.”

Click here for further information on the Guidelines for Inland Waterway Safety.

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