For many locals in Manly, weekends on the water are second nature. Whether it’s fishing or sailing, or simply paddling through the Moreton Bay Marine Park, recreational boating is more than a pastime — it’s a way of life.
But from 1 July 2025, Manly’s boaters will need to be more than just sun-smart and tide-aware — they’ll need to make sure their lifejackets are properly worn in high-risk situations, or risk a fine starting at $333.
The new lifejacket laws, introduced by Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ), have been in effect since December 2024, but the focus until now has been on education. That grace period ends this July, with full enforcement beginning just in time for the winter school holidays.
What the New Rules Mean
Under the updated laws, lifejackets are now mandatory in specific circumstances — especially on smaller boats and when conditions are riskier. This includes:
- Boating alone or only with children under 12 in open boats under 4.8m in length
- Crossing designated coastal bars
- Operating open boats at night
- When children under 12 are on open sections of any boat
- On certain unpowered or low-powered craft, like kayaks, rafts, and pedal boats
MSQ’s renewed safety focus follows sobering statistics: 64 people died in Queensland boating accidents between 2019 and 2023 — and just five were wearing lifejackets at the time
Boating by the Numbers in Moreton Bay
Manly is home to Queensland’s largest small-boat harbour, and its facilities — including two public boat ramps and numerous pontoons — support thousands of boaters each year. According to Maritime Safety Queensland, the state is home to over 261,000 registered recreational vessels and more than 1 million boating licence holders, with a significant concentration in the south-east
Locally, the most popular activities in Moreton Bay include fishing (66%), motorboating (63%), and sailing (35%), according to a 2022 recreational boating study commissioned by Healthy Land & Water
Manly clubs — from the Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club to Sailability — continue to grow in membership, proving the bay’s strong boating culture.
Safety Meets Lifestyle
Brisbane Coast Guard, which operates its largest flotilla right here in Manly, welcomes the tougher stance on safety.
“We’re seeing more casual boaters and families out on the water than ever,” one volunteer said. “It’s not just seasoned sailors anymore; and these new laws will help save lives, especially among newer or less-experienced users.”
The TMR campaign aligns with broader efforts to improve marine safety, including awareness drives about fatigue, alcohol, and poor vessel maintenance. These are all frequent factors in maritime incidents.
Community Buy-in
At the Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club, Commodore Joan Fitzgerald said most members are already familiar with lifejacket laws, but the reminders are helpful — particularly during holiday seasons when visiting boaters are more common.
“We encourage everyone, locals or visitors, to check the Maritime Safety Queensland website or ask staff at the harbour before heading out,” she said. “It’s not about policing fun. It’s about ensuring your family comes back safe.”
The club has even offered to host information nights and distribute printed guides on the new rules through affiliated clubs and schools.
Published 23-June-2025
