Support for recreational boaters
Recreational boat owners can now access new support measures as part of the Algal Bloom Summer Plan.
On 1 December 2025, the State Government introduced the following initiatives to support recreational fishing:
- a 50% discount for recreational boat and light boat trailer registration fees
- free access to boat ramps across South Australia.
Both initiatives will be in place for 12 months.
We have also expanded the coastal camera network to help recreational boaters be informed and safely use the State’s waterways and beaches.
Don’t risk it: Get your lifejacket checked
Our Stay Afloat clinics are continuing to be an asset to our boating community.
Close to half of the 350 inflatable lifejackets checked at Stay Afloat clinics since July have needed replacement parts. Without the parts, the lifejackets would have been of no use in an emergency. While this is a concerning stat, Marine Safety SA are very happy to be able to help and get the owners safely back on board.
Visit Marine Safety SA to get peace of mind, ask any questions about safety equipment and boating requirements – and go into the draw to win a lifejacket!
Each clinic since November has resulted in one lucky winner.
Check upcoming dates to see when Marine Safety SA will be near you.
Respect the river – Make the right call
This summer the River Murray Safety Working Group is reminding River Murray users that most drowning incidents happen close to home or in familiar waterways- often to people who didn’t plan to be in the water at all.
Swimming, fishing, boating or just spending time by the river – it’s all part of summer. Take a moment to think about how everyone will stay safe around water.
To stay safe:
- know the conditions
- avoid alcohol around water
- wear a lifejacket
- slow down when boating near people
- supervise children
- never go alone.
Make safety part of your holiday plans.
River Murray Safety Group members from Marine Safety SA, SA Police, State Emergency Services and South Australian Ambulance Services promoting safety on the River Murray
Online boating transactions
New online boating transactions were recently launched offering greater flexibility and ease for users – anytime, anywhere.
Through your mySAGOV account you can now:
- lodge a notice of disposal when selling your boat to help protect you from having your boat re-registered in your name
- download a free copy of your boat registration certificate.
You can also complete a new owner re-registration online.
Moving these transactions online will save boaters time, removing the need to visit a Service SA centre.
Cool your jets. Know the rules. Stay safe.
If you’re heading out on your jet ski as the weather warms up, ask yourself: is my speed ship-shape near others?
Remember, travelling at a safe speed means you can stop your jet ski quickly to avoid danger.
Make sure you know the speed limits and minimum distances when near other people, marine wildlife and infrastructure. There are also other rules for riding jet skis including an exclusion zone within 200 metres of the shoreline between Grange Road and the River Torrens.
And don’t forget to put on your level 50 or 50S lifejacket!
Jet skis are fun, but ride safe and observe speed limits.
Big ship, big impact
A big ship is a bit like a train – they can move quickly and can’t swerve to avoid obstacles.
While large vessels, such as commercial ships and cruise liners, are impressive, getting too close can be dangerous. If a collision occurs, it can result in serious damage, injury or worse.
If you encounter a big ship on the water:
- don’t underestimate their speed
- keep out of their blind spots
- stay out of their way
- know their impact on nearby waters
- know your boating rules
- give tugboats space.
Remember – big ship, big impact. Keep your distance.
For more information visit marinesafety.sa.gov.au
