LIFEJACKET LAWS REFINED IN NSW NOW IN EFFECT

The marine safety rules in NSW were fine tuned recently to make it simpler for people to understand when the law requires them to wear a lifejacket. One of the changes was to remove the exemption for “surf skis” as used by SLSNSW clubs which made it difficult for compliance officers to determine what was and was not a “surf ski”. All craft of this type now fall within the “canoe/kayak” requirement which means that a lifejacket is required to be worn as follows:

• When more than 100 metres from shore on enclosed waters; and
• At all times on ocean waters.

In considering this change the Office of Boating Safety and Maritime Affairs (OBSMA) actively consulted with Surf Life Saving NSW. These discussions recognised that surf life saving members compete and train in the ocean environment. OBSMA and SLSNSW reached agreement in principle in November and formal agreement in December 2012. This agreement provides SLSNSW Bronze medallion qualified members with an exemption from the wearing of lifejackets when paddling surf skis in the following situations:

• On enclosed waters when paddling in the company of other surf life saving members irrespective of distance from shore; and
• On open (ocean) waters within 500 metres from shore.

This agreement allows SLS members to train and compete as normal. It does mean however, that recreational paddlers on surf skis must comply with the following requirements. Anyone less than 12 years of age is required to wear an appropriate lifejacket at all times on a kayak/ canoe/ sit-on top/ surf ski.

• Anyone 12 years or over must wear a lifejacket when:
• On enclosed waters more than 100m from shore; or
• On open (coastal) waters, including when crossing a coastal bar; or
• On white water; or
• Directed to do so by the master of the vessel.

For more information, go to www.lifejacketwearit.com.au Please note - Additional changes legislate that Pejar Dam and Yass Weir now fall into the classification 'Alpine Waters', both requiring lifejackets to be worn regarding current rules and regulations governing this classification.