This report shows that 473 people drowned in Australian waterways whilst participating in boating and watercraft activity over the past 10 years.

This report shows males accounted for 92% of all boating and watercraft related drowning deaths. This is even higher than the annual percentage of all male drowning deaths (83%) for 2015/16, highlighting the importance of boating and watercraft safety for males in particular. With the summer holiday period fast approaching, it is vital that this safety message reaches men around the country.

Almost one fifth of boating and watercraft drowning deaths (19%) occurred in people over the age of 65 years, with 90 deaths recorded, and followed by 88 deaths in the 35 – 44 years age group (18%). Drowning occurred whilst fishing (28%) and when moving (27%), and most often in small powered boats under 5 meters or paddle craft.

High risk behaviour such as not wearing a lifejacket and consuming drugs and alcohol are key issues when participating in boating and watercraft activity across Australia. This study found that only 8% of people were wearing a lifejacket at the time of death, 31% had consumed drugs, of which 31% were illegal drugs; 26% of people had alcohol in their system, with 59% above the legal driving limit.