"We believe that life is better on the coast. We know that the water is dangerous and that Councils are responsible for coastal water safety. We believe we can do this best by working together"
Local Government Coastal Safety
Local Governments provide a range of Coastal Safety Services to the community including:
Paid Lifeguard Services
Signage
Regulation compliance (including rock fisherman, dogs and 4WD access)
School education programs
Support to research
Asset ownership of Surf Life Saving Clubs
Practice note 15 emphasises that Councils retain responsibility to make key decisions in relation to strategic planning and risk management even when they delegate their lifesaving function to a contracted and/or volunteer service.
NSW Local Governments provide for paid lifeguard services at 185 beaches along the NSW coast. 4 more beaches are managed by National Parks and the Magenta Golf and Country Club.