New shark management measures introduced
Shark nets on the Beaches will be removed one month earlier than usual in a shift in policy to help protect migrating turtles.
The NSW Government has announced its $21.5 million Shark Management Program, with new measures for 2025 aimed at increasing protections for marine life while shark nets remain in use.
Fifteen shark nets installed across the Beaches on 1 September will be removed one month earlier, on 31 March 2025, in response to increased turtle activity in April. The nets will be inspected more frequently and Surf Life Saving NSW drone surveillance of nets will also be increased to scout for turtles in March.
In a distinct change in approach, the government plans to work with councils on shark management issues, with a focus on allowing them to make their own decisions on shark net usage. Further, a trial of lights on nets in February and March next year aims to deter turtles and hinder entanglement.
A spokesperson for Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches told PL that removing nets early was ‘a step towards addressing the environmental impact, but it falls very short of what is needed to truly protect people and our oceans.’
Humane Society International Australia (HSIA) said that the announcement was ‘a positive step, but not nearly enough.’ “This decision was made following consistent pressure regarding turtle migration,” said HSIA marine biologist Lawrence Chlebeck. “But turtles are just one of the threatened marine animals that end up in the nets every year.”
Last year’s season saw 46 non-target animals caught in shark nets across the Beaches, including six marine turtles (four were endangered leatherbacks), three dolphins and 14 non-target sharks. A total of 21 had died (no breakdown available).
Council is opposed to shark nets and told PL that if nets were removed, other appropriate measures could be used, with smart drum lines and drones preferred. However, council said it would review the new guidelines and looked forward to working with the Department of Primary Industries to identify strategies to keep swimmers safe.
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said the priority was the safety of beach-goers and to protect marine life. “We will be working closely with local governments, Surf Life Saving NSW and Surfing NSW over this season to ensure the future of this program works” she said.
“This year we have responded to community feedback and taken significant steps to increase the program’s safeguards for marine animals.”
