Australia's beaches, river and backyard pools are valued parts of our national identity, but they come with a sobering truth: drowning remains a persistent issue, particularly for men. In 2023/24, 82% of the 323 drowning deaths involved males, with risky behaviours, alcohol, overconfidence, and a lack of water safety knowledge contributing to this alarming statistic.

Young men under 30 are especially prone to risky behaviour around water, often driven by peer pressure, thrill-seeking, or the influence of alcohol and drugs. Research shows they’re seven times more likely to drown than women in the same age group. Yet, the presence of a romantic partner can reduce their risk-taking tendencies.

NATIONAL DROWNING REPORT 2024 SNAPSHOT Source Watch the video here

Alcohol and drugs are major factors, particularly in men aged 25-44, where nearly 20% of drowning deaths involve a blood alcohol content over 0.05%. Overestimating swimming abilities and underestimating water hazards compound the problem, with higher confidence often leading to poor decisions in dangerous situations.

Men also dominate drowning deaths during rescue attempts, making up 90% of fatalities. Many lack proper water rescue training, turning heroic intentions into tragedy.

For many young people, the challenge of proving their bravery in front of friends often outweighs concerns for their safety. What starts as a dare or a social media stunt can quickly turn into tragedy. Youth workers in the Kiama area have observed this trend. Programs at Kiama High School, in collaboration with the Kiama Youth Centre, aim to address issues such as peer pressure and anti-social behaviour among students.

Cultural and socio-economic factors play a role too. Overseas-born men are significantly over-represented in drowning statistics, with many lacking familiarity with local water conditions. Children in lower-income families may miss out on swimming lessons due to cost, increasing risks later in life.

Organisations like Royal Life Saving and Surf Life Saving Australia recommend practical measures to reduce drowning deaths:

• Always supervise children around water.
• Learn essential swimming and water safety skills.
• Wear a lifejacket when boating or rock fishing.
• Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when near water.
• Know what a rip is, how to spot one and how to avoid one.

The Australian Water Safety Strategy aims to address these risks, focusing on education and awareness to create safer behaviours by 2030. But as summer peaks, the responsibility lies with all of us: to stay vigilant, prepared, and mindful of the inherent risks in our beloved aquatic landscapes.

Rips are one of the greatest and most common hazards on Australian beaches. Knowing what a rip is, how to spot one and how to avoid one is key to staying safe at the beach.

Learn more about rip currents at the NSW Surf Life Saving Beach & Coastal Safety Resource Hub