National Drowning Report Spotlight on New South Wales

Every year, Royal Life Saving produces a National Drowning Report. This report examines the factors that contribute to drowning deaths in Australia by examining who, where, when and how people have drowned in Australian waterways over the last year. Royal Life Saving has produced a National Drowning Report every year since 1995.

A Spotlight on New South Wales

There were 128 drowning deaths that occurred in NSW between July 1st 2023 to June 30th 2024. This is the highest number of drowning deaths to occur in the state since the National Fatal Drowning Database records began in July of 2002.

The drowning rate of 1.53 per 100,000 population increased by 25% this financial year, compared to the 10-year average.

The highest number of drowning deaths in NSW occurred among those aged 25-34 years and 45-54 years (16% each). However, the age group reporting the highest crude rates for drowning were those aged 75+ years.

Drowning deaths in NSW mainly occurred at beaches (27%), followed by river / creeks (22%), while swimming and recreating (29%).

People who lived in disadvantaged areas (IRSAD Decile 1-4) accounted for 27% of the total drowning deaths in NSW whereas, people who lived in the most advantaged areas (IRSAD Decile 9-10) accounted for 25% of all drowning deaths.

Cost of Drowning

According to research conducted by Royal Life Saving, the devastating impact of fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents had a staggering cost of more than $738,773,897 to New South Wales (NSW) in the 2023-24 financial year. This shocking figure, which encompasses the costs absorbed by the health system, emergency services, and coronial processes, as well as losses in productivity, highlights the dire consequences of water-related incidents in the state. Last year alone, NSW tragically lost 128 lives to fatal drowning, and an estimated 209 people suffered non-fatal drowning incidents, each leaving lasting and costly ripple effects across the community and economy.

Every year, hundreds of families lose loved ones to drowning. It is our priority to reduce the burden of drowning in the community and ensure everyone can enjoy the water safely.

The National Drowning Report 2024 helps us understand who, where, how and why these drowning deaths occur, so that we can work together to keep our communities safe. Whilst progress has been made in some areas, the number of people who drown each year remains persistent.

As it starts to get warmer, remember to stay safe around the water: