Shark Attacks in Australia: 5 Crucial Questions for Surfers

This post is about shark attacks in Australia and what you should consider when surfing in Australia.

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Sharks! That’s probably the first thing that comes to mind for many when they think about surfing in Australia. And honestly, I can’t blame anyone—this thought crossed my mind too before my trip to Australia. Especially for us Europeans, the idea of encountering a shark feels both terrifying and deeply unsettling.

But this fear is completely natural. On one hand, the thought of not being at the top of the food chain reminds us of our vulnerability and triggers an instinctive discomfort. On the other, the ocean remains an unfamiliar and mysterious environment for many, filled with perceived, uncontrollable dangers. Sharks embody these primal fears like almost no other creature.

Our perception of sharks is often shaped by creepy movies like Jaws or 47 Meters Down, as well as real-life tragedies such as the story of surfer Bethany Hamilton. These portrayals amplify our irrational fear of sharks even further.

It’s no secret that surfers in places like California, South Africa, and, of course, Australia occasionally encounter sharks. However, with a bit of knowledge and the right precautions, this fear can be put into perspective.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about shark attacks in Australia—and just how dangerous surfing there really is!

5 Crucial Questions about Shark Attacks in Australia

1. Shark Attacks in Australia – How Real is the Danger?

Shark attacks are extremely rare. According to statistics¹, there were 69 unprovoked shark attacks reported worldwide in 2023, involving injuries or fatalities. Of these, 15 occurred in Australia, with four proving fatal. To put that into perspective, Australia sees over 20 million beach visits annually—the vast majority of which pass without incident.

Fluctuations in shark attack numbers can often be explained. For instance, when comparing year-on-year statistics, a higher attack rate typically coincides with more time spent in the water. During the pandemic years of 2020 and 2022, when fewer people ventured into the ocean, only 57 attacks were recorded—the lowest number in the past decade.

Statistically speaking, you’re far more likely to drown at the beach than to be attacked by a shark. Between July 2022 and June 2023, 281 people drowned along Australia’s coastline—a clear reminder that other dangers in the water are often underestimated.

Why Do Sharks Attack in the first place?

Sharks don’t see humans as prey and rarely attack. The exact reasons for the few incidents that occur are still being studied. A well-known theory suggests that sharks may mistake surfers for their natural prey, such as seals. However, more recent research indicates that other factors can also play a role:

• Limited visibility: In murky water, misunderstandings are more likely.
• Curiosity: Sharks are curious creatures and often explore their surroundings with their mouths. This behavior is especially common among young sharks, who tend to investigate in a playful manner.
• Territorial behavior: Some species may react aggressively if they feel threatened or their territory is invaded.

2. Where are sharks more frequent?

During our year in Australia, there were no shark attacks in the areas where we surfed (mainly along the East Coast), nor did we hear of any sightings. However, some regions do have a higher shark population, such as the coasts of Western Australia and South Australia, as well as certain spots in New South Wales. Areas like Esperance in Western Australia are known for more frequent sightings, whereas popular surf destinations like the Gold Coast or Noosa Heads are much less affected.

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(Read this article to find out about my favourite surf spots in Australia!)

Australia monitors many beaches with shark nets, drones and early warning systems to protect surfers and swimmers. Many beaches also have lifeguards and highly visible warning signs if sharks are spotted.

3. Put the Risk of a Shark Attack into Perspective

Yes, it’s true that Australia has no shortage of apex predators in the water—after all, our sport takes place in their habitat. This means there’s always a risk, albeit a very small one, of encountering a shark. Still, it’s important to put the numbers into perspective: the odds of dying from a shark attack are approximately 1 in 4.3 million²—far lower than the risk of dying in a car accident (1 in 84).

Interestingly, around 150 people worldwide die each year from falling coconuts, which puts the risk of a shark attack into a different perspective. Yet, we still drive cars and relax under palm trees without giving it much thought, don’t we?

And what do the Locals say?

Almost every child in Australia learns to swim, and a love for nature and the ocean is ingrained in Australian identity. If you were to conduct a broad survey among locals, you’d find that only a few have ever seen a wild shark up close.

4. How True are the Myths about Sharks?

Where there’s intense fear, myths are sure to follow. Shark myths are widespread and deeply ingrained, fueled by ignorance, sensationalized media, and our primal fears. The image of sharks as dangerous and unpredictable human predators is common but often far from reality. Here are some myths you’ve likely heard before:

“All Sharks are Dangerous!”

Did you know there are over 530 species of sharks? Some feed exclusively on plankton or small fish. One species of hammerhead shark, according to researchers in California, even prefers plants over fish! In reality, only a small number of shark species—11 to be exact—are implicated in attacks on humans. In Australia, the three most dangerous sharks are the great white shark, tiger shark, and bull shark.

“Sharks eat Humans!”

Research clearly debunks this: humans are not on a shark’s menu! Scientists believe that sharks often mistake humans for prey, such as seals—especially surfers, whose silhouettes can resemble those of seals. Recent studies suggest other factors, such as poor visibility, territorial behavior, or curiosity, as possible reasons for shark bites. Sharks often explore their environment with their mouths and respond to movements in the water.

When you look at reports, most shark attacks involve a single bite, which can be fatal but is rarely a “meal.” And here’s the clincher: if sharks truly wanted to eat humans, there would be far more than the 15 attacks recorded annually across all of Australia.

“If you’re bleeding, you’ll attract sharks!!”

Yes, sharks have an excellent sense of smell. However, neither a wound nor menstrual blood alone is likely to attract sharks. Movement in the water is a much stronger trigger than scent.

5. How to Minimize the Risk of a Shark Attack in Australia?

If the thought of surfing in Australia still makes you uneasy, there are practical steps you can take to reduce the already low risk of encountering a shark. Following safety guidelines, using specialized gear, and knowing how to act if you spot a shark can make a big difference.

Safety Tips

• Surf at patrolled beaches with lifeguards and shark warning systems in place.
• Stick with a group, as sharks are less likely to approach larger groups of people.
• Avoid fishing areas, river mouths, and murky water, where bait and food particles may attract sharks.
• Stay away from seals or whale carcasses, as sharks are likely nearby.
• Don’t ignore warning signs—if a shark has been sighted, stay on land and follow lifeguard instructions. (Check sightings at SharkSmart.com)
• Avoid surfing at dawn or dusk, when sharks are more active.

Anti-Shark Safety Gear for Surfers

Today, there are various tools available to help keep sharks at bay:

• Electronic deterrent devices emit signals or electromagnetic fields designed to repel sharks. Bethany Hamilton is a promoter for Sharkbanz, a company specializing in such devices, though similar gadgets are readily available on Amazon.

• Shark-deterring wetsuits feature special patterns or colors that reduce visibility to sharks (e.g., Shark Stop)

What should I do if a shark is spotted while surfing?

• Stay calm! Panicking only makes the situation more dangerous.
• Gather in a group if possible.
• Exit the water slowly and paddle as gently as you can.If the shark approaches, target sensitive areas like its eyes, gills, or snout.
• Alert lifeguards or others on the beach immediately so a warning can be issued.

Summary: Are Shark Attacks in Australia a Real Danger for Surfers?

Danger is mostly a matter of perspective. From my personal point of view: No! The statistics speak for themselves—the risk of encountering a shark is incredibly low, especially at surf spots along the east and southeast coasts of Australia.

Australia also offers extensive safety measures at its beaches, including lifeguards, shark warning systems, and modern technology like drones and shark nets. With the right preparation and by following safety guidelines, you can further minimize the risk.

The freedom of enjoying the ocean, riding waves, and connecting with nature far outweighs any potential danger. Many seasoned surfers and locals view the ocean not as a threat but as a habitat to be respected and cherished.

If you’re still unsure, start small: get used to it, surf at patrolled beaches, join surf lessons, and learn from others’ experiences. Surfing is more than a sport—it’s a lifestyle that fosters a deeper connection with the ocean and yourself.

Ultimately, the choice to dive in is yours—but trust me, it’s worth it! Every wave you catch fills you with joy and exhilaration, helping you grow both as a surfer and as a person.

This article has covered everything surfers need to know about shark attacks in Australia. Now it’s your turn to paddle out and enjoy the ride!

1. https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/shark-attacks/yearly-worldwide-summary/ ↩︎
2. https://worldanimalfoundation.org/advocate/shark-attack-statistics/ ↩︎

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