Background
Beaches are an iconic part of Australian culture with thousands of people flocking to our shorelines year-round to enjoy a day in the sun. Unfortunately, our beaches can also be dangerous. In the 2019-2020 season a total of 49 lives were lost on NSW coastlines; this represents a 14 percent increase on last year’s figure and is above the 16 year average of 42.
During the 2019/20 year 49 lives were lost on NSW coastlines. 45% of these were at the beach and a further 22% from rock ledges and cliffs. The most common activities prior to drowning were swimming and rock fishing. Sadly, this a a further increase to a 16-year average of 42.
The need for a cohesive, collaborative approach amongst Councils was highlighted in 2020/21 following a spate of issues including:
COVID responses on beaches across LGA's.
Inconsistent messaging to the public across Councils regarding beach safety rules and regulations.
Councils being consulted individually on policy changes (such as the Australian Maritime Safety Authority Personal Watercraft policy) leading to individual submissions and a lack of a cohesive voice across the region.
Why do we need a Coastal Safety Group?
Water safety is our responsibility.
The Local Government Act 1993 provides for local government in NSW and for the role of Councils within their local government areas. Councils have a responsibility to ensure all water safety functions are carried out safely and effectively to minimise risks of injury or death.
With no prescribed water safety minimum standards for local government in the Act, the Office of Local Government Practice note15 is the key document guiding NSW councils to strengthen their water safety functions and responsibilities using a risk management approach.
It’s a common problem.
The coastal water safety challenges faced by Councils are rarely constrained by Local Government Area (LGA) boundaries. Beach goers frequent locations across LGAs and contributing hazards such as storms and heatwaves apply to us all equally.
Practice note 15 encourages collaboration. Whilst other local government and water safety forums exist, none focus on the responsibility borne by coastal land managers and the opportunity for collaboration across local government boundaries.
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Our Vision
“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.”
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Our Mission
“To facilitate collaboration amongst coastal water safety managers and to advocate on their behalf”
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Our Goals
The Coastal Safety Group has three primary goals. These goals will ensure the progression of beach safety through delivery of the Coastal Safety Group strategic plan.
• Develop best practice processes and tools
• Provide collaborative opportunities
• Be a voice for advocacy