30/09/2026
Keep safety as your top priority on water
We're reminding boaters to check their safety equipment before every trip, following a recent marine safety operation at Port Sorell.
During a two-hour operation, Western Marine Police conducted compliance checks on recreational vessels, issuing 15 infringement notices for inadequate, missing or non-compliant safety equipment.
Two of the most common offences detected were:
⚠️ Failing to carry, properly store, maintain or keep mandatory safety equipment ready for immediate use ($426 fine)
⚠️ Failing to maintain life jackets in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications ($213 fine)
As the weather warms up and more people take to Tasmania's waterways, now is the time to ensure your vessel is properly equipped and meets safety requirements.
Before you leave shore, take a few minutes to:
✅ Check life jackets are in good condition and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions
✅ Ensure flares and other required safety equipment are onboard and compliant
✅ Confirm all safety equipment is properly stored and ready for immediate use.
We will continue marine safety patrols and compliance operations throughout the boating season to help keep everyone safe on our waterways.
For more information about the rules, visit: https://mast.tas.gov.au/recreational-boating/safety-equipment/
