New Lifejacket Law: A lifejacket only saves your life if you’re wearing it

NSW Treasurer and Minister for Ports and Waterways Eric Roozendaal today reminded boaters across the state that new lifejacket laws for recreational boaters come into effect from November 1st 2010.

“Lifejackets are the most important piece of safety equipment on any vessel,” Mr Roozendaal said. “Lifejackets save lives, but they can’t save your life if you’re not wearing one.” “I remind all boaters to familiarise themselves with the safety requirements, especially those who have smaller boats or children under 12.”

The lifejacket law referred to requires all recreational boaters in New South Wales (NSW) to adhere to specific rules regarding when and where lifejackets must be worn. This law, implemented on November 1st, 2010, mandates that lifejackets are worn in higher-risk situations, such as:

1. On vessels under 4.8 meters in length: Lifejackets must be worn at all times in heightened risk situations, including when boating at night, on open (ocean) waters, on alpine waters, or when boating alone.
2. Children under 12 years of age: Must wear lifejackets on boats under 4.8 meters or when in open areas of vessels under 8 meters that are underway.

Stronger protections apply to children under 12 who must wear lifejackets on boats less than 4.8m or when they are in open areas of vessels less than 8 metres that are underway, which means all deck areas including fly bridges and anything attached to the stern.

“The new laws also give skippers the legal authority to require passengers put on a lifejacket in risky situations such as in rough water or after a break-down,” Mr Roozendaal said.

The new lifejacket rules follow extensive community consultation by NSW Maritime, with more than 86 per cent of respondents supporting the majority of the proposed changes. While boaters get used to the new rules there will be a 12-month advisory period where warnings will be issued for first offences.

Some common questions boaters might have include:

• What types of lifejackets comply with the law? Boat owners often ask if inflatable lifejackets are allowed and which Australian standards they need to meet.
• Do I need to wear a lifejacket on all types of waters? Boaters may wonder if the rules differ for inland waters versus coastal waters.
• When can lifejackets be removed? People frequently inquire about whether lifejackets can be taken off in calm waters or if there are any exemptions.
• What is the penalty for non-compliance? Questions often arise about fines or penalties if boaters are found not adhering to the law.

The regulations are aimed at enhancing safety by ensuring that boaters are prepared with appropriate safety gear in the event of an emergency.

More information is available at: www.maritime.nsw.gov.au