Standing up Against New Marine Safety & Lifejacket Laws

New lifejacket laws have come into effect that all boat users must be aware of. The changes include stricter rules on when lifejackets must be worn as well as the phasing out of older Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) that do not meet modern Australian Standards.

While safety on the water is paramount, many North Queenslanders consider the new laws to be impractical as they fail to consider the realities of local boating conditions.

The laws came into effect on December 1, 2024, however there are still many people who are unaware of the new requirements. We are told that enforcement of the new rules will be delayed until July 1, 2025, as Marine Safety Queensland (MSQ) attempts to improve communication and education of the public about the requirements.

For those who aren’t yet aware, the changes now make it mandatory to wear a lifejacket in the following circumstances:

• When boating alone, or only with children under 12 on an open boat under 4.8m while underway.

• When crossing designated coastal bars on an open ship or in an open area of any boat.

• For children aged 1-12 who are on an open boat or in an open area of any boat while underway.

• During night-time boating (sunset to sunrise) on an open boat under 4.8m while underway.

In response to community concerns, I moved a disallowance motion in Parliament to scrap these heavy- handed changes which were introduced by the State Labor Government just prior to the 2024 State election. Although I had hoped for the current State Government’s support, the subordinate legislation was passed and will remain in force.

I will continue to push back against government over-regulation and fight to protect our cherished North Queensland freedoms. For more information about the new rules please visit https://www.msq.qld.gov.au/About-us/News-and-stories/New-rules-for-wearing-lifejackets or phone MSQ on 13 23 80.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook