Increase in fatal drownings this summer

More than 100 people have fatally drowned this summer, according to Royal Life Saving Australia.

Data shows a consistent peak in summer drownings, with the most recent recordings from this summer increasing by 5 per cent from last summer, and by 15 per cent over the past five years.

New South Wales recorded the highest number of drowning deaths, accounting for 33 per cent of fatalities, followed by Victoria and Queensland both with 22 per cent. Approximately one third of drownings occurred at beaches and rivers, with river drownings increasing by 29 per cent this summer.

CEO of Royal Life Saving Australia, Justin Scarr, said this summer was “too tragic” and stressed the need for long-term prevention investments.

Image: ShutterShock – Janelle Keys

Produced By: Michaela Cullen

Featured In Story: Justin Scarr – Chief Executive Officer of Royal Life Saving Australia

First aired on The Wire, Wednesday 5 March 2025