Australia has recorded its highest number of drowning deaths since records began — a sobering reminder of how important water safety and volunteer lifesaving remain as summer approaches.
The 2024 National Drowning Report, released in September by Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia, found 357 people lost their lives to drowning between July 2023 and June 2024 — a 27 percent increase on the ten-year average. Queensland accounted for 90 of those deaths, the second-highest total in the country.
Most incidents occurred in coastal and inland waterways, with beaches alone claiming 82 lives. Concerningly, drownings were almost three times more likely in regional and remote areas than in major cities. Factors such as declining swimming fitness, changing weather patterns, alcohol use, and people visiting unpatrolled or unfamiliar locations have all contributed to the rise.
Men remain dramatically overrepresented, accounting for more than 80 percent of all drowning deaths nationwide. Experts say the trend reflects risk-taking behaviour, overconfidence, and underestimation of conditions — issues that cut across age and experience.
Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir said coastal drownings remain a major concern, with rip currents responsible for more deaths than sharks, floods, or cyclones combined. “Too often, we see men putting themselves in danger because they believe experience or strength will keep them safe,” he said. “The ocean doesn’t discriminate — everyone is vulnerable when things go wrong.”
Last year, lifesavers and lifeguards performed more than 2.2 million preventative actions and over 8,000 rescues nationwide, underscoring the critical role of trained volunteers in saving lives.
As temperatures climb and Queenslanders head to the water, Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) is urging men in particular to take responsibility — for themselves and for their mates. Swim between the red and yellow flags, avoid alcohol before entering the water, and never swim alone.
Volunteer lifesavers are the frontline of that effort, keeping watch on beaches, educating the public, and responding when seconds matter.
This summer, if you’ve ever thought about giving back, consider joining your local surf life saving club.
Be the mate who makes the difference — the one who steps up, learns the skills, and helps keep Queensland beaches safe for everyone.
👉 Ready to get started?
Book a quick call with Surf Life Saving Queensland today to find out how you can join your local club, get trained, and be part of something bigger than yourself.
Because your presence on the beach could be the difference between a safe swim and a tragedy.