National Summer Drowning Toll
Royal Life Saving Australia research shows a consistent peak in fatal drowning cases in the summer months. In a bid to understand the increased risks during this time, each year, we publish the Summer Drowning Toll from 1 December to the end of February, which charts drowning incidents around Australia in these months. This serves as a timely vehicle for us to promote safety advice in conjunction with our ongoing drowning prevention campaigns for particularly high-risk groups and communities, such as men, children and people from multicultural communities.
National Summer Drowning Toll 2024/25
104 lives lost to drowning in waterways and swimming pools this summer
- The National Summer Drowning Toll for 2024/25 identified that 104 people lost their lives to drowning, up 5% from last summer and 14% on the 5-year average.
- One-third (32%) of all summer drowning deaths were people aged 55 years and over. Ten children (0 -14 years) drowned this summer. Males remain over-represented (81%).
- New South Wales recorded the highest number of drowning deaths (33), followed by Victoria (22), Queensland (22), and Western Australia (15).
- Approximately one third each occurred at beaches (32%) and rivers (30%). River drowning increased by 29%. Swimming pool drowning deaths (11) doubled compared to last summer.
- Two-thirds (64%) of drowning deaths occurred in regional areas. Regional communities experience higher rates of drowning, due to greater exposure to natural waters, and reduced access to safe places to swim.
- Royal Life Saving is alarmed by the increase in drowning deaths again this summer and emphasise the need for long-term investments into drowning prevention measures
To stay safe around the water, be prepared and make sure to:
Know your swimming abilities
Always supervise children around water
Avoid alcohol around water
Wear a lifejacket when boating, paddling and fishing
Check the conditions and be prepared to change your plans
Avoid going alone
Choose a patrolled beach and swim between the flags
