New speed limits, other rules introduced in boating safety strategy

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New rules for boaties and jet skiers have been introduced to reduce irresponsible and dangerous behaviour on our River Murray.

In August last year, the state government proposed new licences and operating conditions for jet skis and boats in a review aimed at improving water safety.

Action is now being taken to put the proposed laws into effect over the next five years.

The state-first strategy includes cracking down on dangerous jet ski behaviour, new boat licence reforms, simplifying life jacket and safety equipment requirements, increasing education and expanding the use of technology for boaties.

With speed a common factor in boating trauma, speed limits will be lowered in areas frequently shared by people and vessels, and where there are bridges and locks.

That will include:

• A four-knot speed limit for all powered vessels within 100 metres of all bridges and locks
• A seven-knot speed limit for all powered vessels on the backwaters of the River Murray
• A seven-knot speed limit at night on the River Murray

There will be measures put in place to allow exemptions for specified aquatic activities and events.

Swim-only and non-powered vessel zones will be created, and jet ski riders will not be able to circle, weave or ride erratically near moored vessels and dwellings.

Jet ski operating times will be changed to sunrise to sunset, reducing confusion and providing consistency.

Currently operators can ride between 8am and sunset, or 8pm, from Monday to Saturday; and between 9am and sunset, or 8pm, on Sundays.

Boating safety education will soon be expanded in schools, at boat ramps, and through retailers, who are often the first point of contact for people purchasing marine safety gear.

Special permit holders – children aged 12-15 – will require a minimum of six months' supervised on-water experience before being eligible for the practical test which allows them to operate solo.

Boat licencing will become similar to getting a driver's licence, with an online education component to complete alongside the current theory test.

The initiative aims to obtain the target of reaching zero fatalities and harm among recreational boaters and other water users by 2030.

Reforms have been designed to save lives

Marine Safety SA marine safety and compliance manager Gordon Panton said the strategy had been informed by the views of more than 2800 people.

The group identified concerns and safety solutions during two stages of public consultation.

“We will continue to work with the community as actions are implemented over the next five years to foster a water safety-first culture among recreational boaties,” Mr Panton said.

“Prioritising your safety also protects those around you, creating a safer future for everyone on our spectacular waterway.”

Currently there is only one live web camera on the River Murray located at Berri; he hoped this would change, as more cameras were expected to roll out statewide.

Over the past four years, more than one third of vessels checked by Marine Safety Officers have been found to be non-compliant, with incorrect safety equipment and life jacket misuse among the most common issues.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis said being on the water should be a positive and fun experience for everyone, but sometimes it could be unpredictable and dangerous. 

“Over the past 20 years, tragically, an average of three people each year set out to enjoy aquatic activities and never came home,” he said.

“With this landmark strategy, we hope to prevent future trauma by supporting and enforcing safer behaviours on the water, regardless of whether you are heading to the river, enjoying beachside waters or are offshore boating along the coast.”

• Read the new strategy: marinesafety.sa.gov.au.