The Importance of Safety Compliance For Councils & Governing Bodies
Councils & Governing Bodies’ Role in Reducing Drownings
in Man-Made Water Bodies
Australia’s waterways, marinas, jetties, and canals are beloved features of many communities,
offering leisure activities, economic opportunities, and natural beauty.
However, these man-made environments also present significant safety risks, contributing to a notable
percentage of annual drownings across the country.
As councils and governing bodies responsible for maintaining public infrastructure, it is critical to recognize
the scope of the issue and take action to improve water safety.
Drownings in Man-Made Water Bodies: The Current Situation
Each year, Australia experiences approximately 290 drownings across various water environments. Of these, 10-15% occur in and around man-made structures, such as marinas, jetties, pontoons, and canals.
This translates to an average of 36 drownings annually in these environments—preventable tragedies that claim lives and affect communities.
Given the relatively controlled nature of these environments compared to natural open waters, the risk of drowning should be significantly mitigated by appropriate infrastructure and safety measures.
Unfortunately, many man-made water bodies lack essential safety features that could save lives. This gap in safety leads not only to preventable loss of life but also imposes a considerable financial burden on Australian taxpayers.