Australia’s coastline is home to some of the world’s most remarkable marine life, including a large diversity of sharks.
While shark encounters are generally uncommon, understanding how to reduce your risk can help you enjoy the ocean with confidence.
Being “shark smart” isn’t about avoiding the water. It’s about awareness, good decision‑making, and recognising the conditions that make encounters more likely.
How Common Are Shark Attacks?
Despite public perception, shark incidents remain rare. Globally, there are around 70-100 shark bites per year, with only 10-15 fatalities.
Australia typically records 20-30 incidents annually, with 0-3 fatalities in most years.
It’s important to note that millions of people enter the ocean every year without incident.
See our article: Are Shark Attacks Increasing? for more information.
Shark Smart Tips for All Ocean Users
Swim Between the Flags
Patrolled beaches are the safest places to swim. Lifeguards monitor conditions, identify hazards, and respond quickly in emergencies. Lifeguards will alert the public if a shark is sighted in the area. If no patrolled beach is available, follow local signage and beach‑specific advice.
Avoid the Water at Dawn, Dusk, and Night
Many shark species are more active in low‑light conditions. Reduced visibility increases the chance of mistaken identity, especially for swimmers and surfers on the surface.
Stay Clear of Baitfish Schools and Diving Birds
If you see:
- baitfish flickering
- birds diving
- larger fish feeding
…you’re observing a feeding event. Sharks may be drawn to the same activity, so it’s best to move to a quieter area.
Choose Clear Water
Many shark species rely heavily on silhouette and movement. Murky or churned‑up water makes it harder for them to distinguish humans from prey. If the water is brown or silty, wait for conditions to improve.
Stay Close to Shore
Staying within a comfortable distance of the beach allows for faster assistance if needed.
Avoid Popular Fishing Areas
Fishing introduces bait, blood, and struggling fish — all of which can attract sharks. Swim away from fishing lines, boats, and cleaning stations. If you’re boating, keep fish waste out of the water around swimmers.
Avoid River Mouths and Canals
These areas are often murkier, attract baitfish, and are common habitats for bull sharks. After rain, runoff can further reduce visibility and draw predators closer to shore.
Don’t Enter the Water With Bleeding Cuts or Wounds
Sharks have an excellent sense of smell. Even small amounts of blood can attract attention, so cover wounds or sit this swim out.
Use Shark Apps and Local Alerts
Many states provide real‑time shark sighting information. Staying informed helps you make safer decisions, especially during peak seasons.
Most Sharks Are Relatively Harmless
Only a small number of species — predominantly white sharks, tiger sharks, and bull sharks — are responsible for most serious incidents.
Australia is home to hundreds of other species that come in many shapes and sizes, including reef sharks, nurse sharks, wobbegongs, and more.
These species are generally shy, gentle, or uninterested in humans, and are deserving of respect — not fear.
What To Do If You See A Shark
This article focuses on prevention.
For a guide on how to respond during an encounter, read: What To Do If You’re In The Water With A Shark Nearby.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to fear the ocean — just understand it.
By paying attention to conditions, avoiding higher‑risk situations, and respecting marine wildlife, you significantly reduce the already small chance of a shark encounter.
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