Maritime Safety Queensland is strongly reminding Manly boaties and others across state waters to follow important safety rules, especially new lifejacket laws, following the worrying fact that 59 out of 64 people who drowned in recent Queensland boating accidents were not wearing a lifejacket.
Easter Safety Campaign Underway
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) officers are conducting an intensive safety campaign on the state’s waterways, including areas around Manly. This safety focus runs from 5 April to 21 April, covering the busy Easter school holiday period. MSQ officers will be out on the water checking boats and talking to people. The main goals are to ensure people follow the rules for wearing lifejackets and travelling at safe speeds, as these are the two biggest factors in boating deaths.
New Lifejacket Rules Explained
New rules for wearing lifejackets were enacted on 1 December 2024 to help keep people safer in risky situations. Wearing a lifejacket is now required by law when crossing designated coastal bars in open boats or the open area of any boat. It’s also required when boating alone in an open boat under 4.8 metres long or in a vessel between sunset and sunrise.
Furthermore, all children aged between one and twelve years must wear a lifejacket while in an open boat or the open area of any underway boat. An open boat generally means one without a permanent rigid cabin or deckhouse.
Lifejacket Standards and Conditions
Boaties are reminded that lifejackets must be kept in good condition to work properly. This means checking that the material colour is still bright, the stitching is intact, and the straps are not worn out. Inflatable lifejackets need regular servicing according to the maker’s instructions, which might involve professional or careful self-servicing following specific steps.
It is also important for boat owners to know that all lifejackets must meet the current Australian Standard AS 4758 by 1 September 2025, as older types are being phased out. Different types of lifejackets are available, rated for different water conditions, such as open or smooth waters.
Enforcement and Penalties
While MSQ officers focus on educating boaters about the new lifejacket rules, they will begin enforcing compliance with fines from 1 July 2025. However, officers can issue fines immediately to boaties caught speeding. Speeding is a major risk because it gives boat operators less time to react to unexpected situations or dangers on the water.
Official Safety Message
Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon emphasised that a lifejacket can only save someone’s life if they are wearing it. He stated that the new laws aim to ensure that lifejackets are worn during high-risk times, such as boating alone, at night, crossing bars, or when children are onboard.
Mr Dillon urged all boaties to make wearing lifejackets a normal part of their boating routine. He also warned that speeding reduces reaction time and increases the risk of serious accidents. The core message for boaties this Easter is straightforward: wear your lifejacket, slow down, and ensure a safe return home.
Published Date 07-April-2025
