Reducing the risk of shark interactions
More than 160 species of sharks inhabit Australian waters, and around 30 of those frequent South Australia.
While many shark species are capable of injuring humans, the majority are not aggressive under most circumstances. The risk of shark attack is extremely low.
There are 5 species of shark in SA waters that are considered potentially dangerous:
Take the following steps to minimise the risk of human and shark interactions.
Avoid shark food sources
- Do not swim or scuba dive where there is a possible attraction or food source for sharks, including:
- areas where there are large schools of fish, pods of dolphins, seals or sea lions
- water that is being used by recreational or commercial fishers
- water with signs of bait fish or feeding activity.
- Do not enter or remain in the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding.
- Avoid having pets in the water with you.
Avoid shark habitats
- Do not swim in:
- murky waters
- near a river mouth, after heavy rainfall
- in deep channels
- between sand bars or steep drop-offs.
- Avoid swimming in the water at dawn, dusk or at night – some species of shark are known to come inshore at these times to feed.
- Do not enter the water if large sharks are known to be present.
Safety advice
If you come across a shark, do not to interact with it. If you are swimming, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible.
If you are in a small boat or paddle craft, return to shore if it is safe to do so, or get assistance from a nearby fishing vessel.
Minimise your risk by taking these steps:
- Do not swim alone or too far from shore.
- Always swim at patrolled beaches and stay between the flags.
- Look carefully before jumping into the water from a boat or jetty.
- Leave the water if schooling fish or other wildlife start to behave erratically or congregate in large numbers.
- Refrain from excessive splashing.
- Learn more about safe beach swimming – Beachsafe.
Help keep our beaches safe and report all shark sightings.
