Government of Western Australia logoSharkSmart logo
Government of Western Australia
Acknowledgement of Country

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country, the Aboriginal people of the many lands that we work on and their language groups throughout Western Australia and recognise their continuing connection to the land and waters.

We respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of our regions and we pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

SharkSmart WA
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Download the SharkSmart WA app

Stay informed with near real-time shark activity alerts and beach safety information.


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Aerial view of a boat cruising through clear turquoise waters, leaving a trail of white wake, with gentle waves in the background.
Source: DPIRD

About SharkSmart WA

What we do

Share near real-time information

We provide near real-time information on shark activity so you can make an informed decision about your water use.

See shark activity
Deliver safety tools and tips

We deliver practical tools and safety tips so you can keep enjoying the water with confidence.

Get safety tips
Coordinate effective responses

We work collaboratively to coordinate effective responses to shark hazards and attractants, while keeping you informed of the risks.

Check for news and alerts
Communicate scientific insights

We’re continuing to improve our understanding of shark movements and behaviour in Western Australian waters to help inform what shark hazard mitigation strategies may prove effective.

Explore the science
Provide useful resources

We provide practical advice and useful resources for land managers, event organisers, stakeholders and educators.

Dive into our resources

Play your part

Who we are

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Program coordinators
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Lifeguards and aerial surveillance
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Land managers
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Community partners
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Emergency responders
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Scientists and researchers

Our partners

Latest news

View all latest news and media releases
Sunny beach scene with people swimming and relaxing on the sandy shore, lined with trees and buildings in the background.
© Tourism WA
© Tourism WA
Sunny beach scene with people swimming and relaxing on the sandy shore, lined with trees and buildings in the background.
© Tourism WA
Sunny beach scene with people swimming and relaxing on the sandy shore, lined with trees and buildings in the background.
© Tourism WA

Help others stay safe

If you see a shark, report it to Water Police immediately on 9442 8600.

Report a shark sighting
Aerial view of a sandy beach with people sunbathing, umbrellas, surfboards, and a lifeguard vehicle near turquoise waves.
Aerial view of a sandy beach with people sunbathing, umbrellas, surfboards, and a lifeguard vehicle near turquoise waves.
Aerial view of a sandy beach with people sunbathing, umbrellas, surfboards, and a lifeguard vehicle near turquoise waves.

Spread the word

Share our simple safety tips with family, friends and your local community.

Share our safety tips
Aerial view of surfers paddling on turquoise waves near the shore, creating white surf patterns and vibrant splashes in the ocean.
Aerial view of surfers paddling on turquoise waves near the shore, creating white surf patterns and vibrant splashes in the ocean.
Aerial view of surfers paddling on turquoise waves near the shore, creating white surf patterns and vibrant splashes in the ocean.

Switch on and save

Use an approved personal shark deterrent device and take advantage of the government rebate.

Beach scene with a sign reading "Cottesloe Beach CT23," clear blue sea, yellow buoys, and trees in the foreground.
Beach scene with a sign reading "Cottesloe Beach CT23," clear blue sea, yellow buoys, and trees in the foreground.
Beach scene with a sign reading "Cottesloe Beach CT23," clear blue sea, yellow buoys, and trees in the foreground.

Take note of BEN signs

Beach Emergency Numbers or BEN signs provide specific location information, vital when emergency services are deployed.

Discover more
Hand holding a smartphone displaying a map app, with a flowing river in the background.
© DPIRD
© DPIRD
Hand holding a smartphone displaying a map app, with a flowing river in the background.
© DPIRD
Hand holding a smartphone displaying a map app, with a flowing river in the background.
© DPIRD

Stay informed

Always check for shark activity and current alerts and warnings, before entering the water

Check recent shark activity
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Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD)

DPIRD leads WA’s SharkSmart program, working with partners to deliver shark hazard mitigation, coordinated responses and research support.

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Learn more
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WA Police Shield
WA Water Police

The Water Police Coordination Centre operates a dedicated shark sighting call service and supports marine search and rescue and law enforcement across

Learn more
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BCA Government Logo
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)

DBCA manages WA’s parks and reserves, with Parks and Wildlife responding to shark hazards, including managing whale carcasses that can attract sharks.

Learn more
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Surf Life Saving WA
Surf Life Saving WA

Surf Life Saving WA is the state’s peak coastal safety body, providing beach and aerial surveillance and coordinating emergency responses via SurfCom.

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LGA Text
Local Government Authorities

Local governments support community safety by using public safety tools and coordinating responses to shark hazards, including beach closures and warn

Learn more
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Logo with a white wave and stars on a black circle. Text reads "SURFING WESTERN AUSTRALIA" in bold white and blue letters.
Surfing WA

Surfing WA governs board sports and, with the WA Government, supports event water safety, Surfers Rescue 365 training and SharkSmart awareness.

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St John Logo
St John WA

St John WA coordinates Triple-0 and ambulance response and delivers first aid training to support emergency preparedness.

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Keeping spring beach-goers safe with weekend helicopter patrols
© SLSWA
Cook government extend aerial beach patrols for three years
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The SharkSmart Team
New wave of funding to enhance safety for WA Surfers
Read more
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Shark Warning System upgrade to boost safety
Shark warning system upgrade in time for summer
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Helping Western Australians to enjoy our water-loving lifestyle with confidence

The SharkSmart program is an initiative of the Western Australian Government that provides a comprehensive range of tools and strategies to help water users make informed decisions about their water use and safety.

By integrating science, technology, best practice and collaboration across agencies and stakeholders, SharkSmart delivers one of Australia’s most comprehensive shark hazard mitigation strategies, helping people understand the facts about sharks and the risks they present.

A patrol boat is on the water, near a bright yellow shark monitoring receiver on a sunny day, with land visible in the background.
© DPIRD 2
A patrol boat is on the water, near a bright yellow shark monitoring receiver on a sunny day, with land visible in the background.
Source: DPIRD
Researcher on a boat examines a large white shark in vibrant blue ocean water.
© DPIRD