As we approach the busiest time of the year on our waterways and coastline, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is reminding Australians to be prepared and to stay safe when out and about.
This holiday season, AMSA’s Response Centre is available 24/7, monitoring and responding to distress calls and emergencies from anywhere in Australia’s search and rescue region.
AMSA Acting Executive Director Response Mike Wytcherley said water goers can do their part to keep safe by wearing a lifejacket, carrying a distress beacon and safety gear.
“At this time of year, when we see many boaters dusting off their watercraft for the first time since last summer, it’s important to make sure your vessel is safe and ready to hit the water.
“We also strongly urge all boaters to wear a lifejacket at all times on the water and remind everyone it is compulsory for children to wear a lifejacket while on a watercraft in all states and territories.
“AMSA also highly recommends the use of distress beacons, such as an emergency indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) or personal locator beacon (PLB), which can be purchased at most outdoor and boating retailers,” Mr Wytcherley said.
Mr Wytcherley on the 2025 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race: “As in previous years, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race will start on Boxing Day and AMSA will be available to provide search and rescue assistance, if needed,”
“AMSA can utilise numerous resources in the event of an emergency, including our own search and rescue aircrafts, helicopters, police marine units, and volunteer marine rescue bases along the NSW South Coast, Gippsland and Tasmanian east coast.”
Learn more about wearing lifejackets and other helpful safety information and useful tips on local state or territory government maritime or transport websites. More information about distress beacons and how to properly register them on AMSA’s website at: beacons.amsa.gov.au
