Recreational Boating Safety Update

The Department of Transport (DoT) has advised that from the 30 September 2024 the second stage of the new safety equipment requirements for sail and kiteboarders, windsurfers and paddlers operating more than 400 metres from shore in unprotected waters will become law. This is the final stage of reforms designed to save lives on the water.

The new laws simplify the requirements for these particular craft and replace previous laws that were complicated. From 30 September enthusiasts operating more than 400 metres from shore in unprotected waters will need to meet the same safety equipment requirements introduced for tenders and sailing dinghies last September. Some of these include:

• carrying of an appropriate lifejacket for each person;

• wearing a lifejacket for children aged between 1-12 years and when the vessel is less than 4.8 metres;

• carrying a GPS-enabled Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), or wearing a GPS-enabled Personal Locator Beacon (PLB); and

• carrying flares or an approved electronic signalling device (if a GPS-enabled distress beacon is carried).

The Department of Transport will launch an education campaign targeting sail and kiteboarders, windsurfers and those who use paddle craft. Enthusiasts are being told ‘It’s time to get on board’ with an extension of the successful earlier campaign for skippers fronted by former Fremantle Docker and marine biologist David Mundy.

The Department of Transport team will shortly commence visiting retailers to discuss the new changes.  If you have any questions, please contact the Department of Transport direct via email:  edboat@transport.wa.gov.au

 Credit: Department of Transport.

Happy Boating Everyone!!