Month: September 2025

Water engulfs Australia from all sides, making boating a go-to recreational activity on this massive island. But while holding that steering in those thrilling waves, safety should never be an afterthought.

Between 2005 and 2015, 473 Aussies drowned while using a watercraft. Only 10% of all those were wearing a life jacket. A life jacket is necessary to play it safe on the water.

During a boat ride, life jackets are probably (or the most) essential safety gear you can carry.

But carrying it is half the job done. That’s because the rules in the country differ state to state and knowing when and how to wear is another key part of the equation. That helps you get back safely to the shore and avoid hefty penalties as well.

So buckle up and let’s dive into those boat life jacket rules so you can stay compliant and safe.

Overview of Jackets

Life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) are made to keep your head above water if you drown. Since a one-fits-all approach can be risky, there are different types and styles available like inflatable and non-inflatable jackets and are tailored for various water conditions and activities.

Personal flotation devices must be accessible, appropriately fitted, and in excellent condition. Their effectiveness can be compromised if worn incorrectly or serviced regularly. Knowing what type suits your activity and environment is the first step in staying protected.

Why Do You Need to Wear a Lifejacket?

The answer to this question is a no-brainer: “Because your life’s at risk while boating.”  Life jackets or personal flotation devices aren’t some penalty-saving gears. They can potentially save your life as well. Accidents on the water happen in a jiffy, often with no warning.

This checklist gives you enough good reasons to always wear a life jacket:

• It keeps your head above water if you fall in unexpectedly.
• Helps you stay afloat even if you’re tired or injured.
• Essential during restricted visibility or a sudden severe weather warning.
• Increases your chances of survival until help arrives.
• It makes it easier for you to spot rescue teams in rough water.
• It’s required by law in many boating situations across Australia.

Types of Life Jackets

Australia categorises life jackets into different levels, each serving a specific purpose depending on the boating activity and environment.

Type 1 Lifejackets – Level 100 PFD or 150 

These offer the highest level of buoyancy and are suited for offshore and open waters. They are bulkier but provide excellent flotation and keep your head above water.

Coastal life jacket designs often fall under this category. These are mandatory in many situations, especially when boating in enclosed waters or far from shore.

Type 2 Lifejackets – Level 50 PFD

These are suitable for inshore waters and are often used for water sports. They are lighter than Type 1 and more comfortable, but do not provide the same level of flotation.

Depending on the state rules, you must wear a lifejacket when participating in certain recreational vessel activities.

Type 3 Lifejackets –  Level 50S

Similar to Type 2 in flotation, but available in sportier designs. They’re often worn during kayaking, water skiing, or operating personal watercraft. They’re not recommended for offshore use.

Type 1 Inflatable Lifejacket

Inflatable lifejackets are compact and more comfortable than traditional foam ones. They inflate automatically or manually when needed. If using these, ensure the manual inflation toggle is not obstructed.

They must also be serviced regularly and tested for leaks. Many boaters prefer inflatable lifejackets for their comfort and ease of movement.

Lifejacket Requirements Under the National Law

According to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, national laws apply primarily to commercial vessels, but safety principles influence recreational guidelines too.

All recreational vessels must carry the appropriate number and type of lifejackets on board, suitable for the size and type of boat and the waters being navigated.

Each lifejacket must comply with current lifejacket standards, and children or non-swimmers are especially encouraged to wear one at all times.

These requirements are bare minimums; states and territories can apply additional rules.

Rules When You Must Wear a Lifejacket

The following are common conditions across most jurisdictions where you must wear a lifejacket:

• Children under a certain age (usually 12) must always wear a lifejacket on a recreational vessel.
• All occupants must wear a lifejacket when crossing a coastal bar or rough water.
• Lifejackets must be worn during a severe weather warning or when visibility is low (restricted visibility).
• Solo boaters or those in tinnies under a specific size must wear a lifejacket.
• In many states, you must wear a lifejacket while in enclosed waters, especially if you’re in a small vessel.

These rules for life jackets on boats aren’t just about the safety equipment on board. The law clarifies that there are times when wearing lifejackets is not optional.

Lifejacket Regulations By States

Each state and territory in Australia has its own set of rules. Here’s a breakdown:

ACT & NSW

In New South Wales and the ACT, everyone (from drivers to passengers) must wear an approved lifejacket. You must wear a lifejacket when boating alone, at night, in enclosed waters, or during adverse weather. Inflatable lifejackets are allowed but must meet servicing requirements.

The jacket must be level 50S+ when in enclosed waters, and in open waters, the standard should be 100 or greater.

NT

Northern Territory laws focus on responsibility. All passengers on board must carry lifejackets. You must wear a lifejacket level 100+ in open waters and level 50+ in inland waters.

Qld

In Queensland, children aged 12 must wear lifejackets on boats. Adults must wear a lifejacket in hazardous conditions, including severe weather warnings. Inflatable lifejackets are common, but they must meet legal standards. The Level 50s are fine for smooth waters, and 100+ is suitable for partially smooth waters.

SA

South Australia requires that you must wear a lifejacket (Level 50S+) on vessels when operating in protected or enclosed waters. For unprotected waters, a Level 100+ lifejacket is mandatory for every individual.

TAS

Tasmania is strict about its life jacket regulations. If your recreational vessel is under 6 metres, you must always wear a lifejacket, regardless of conditions. All lifejackets must be Australian Standard-compliant. This rule includes inflatable lifejackets, provided they’re serviced regularly.

VIC

Wearing lifejackets (Level 100+) in Victoria is mandatory on sheltered or enclosed waters. In this state, you must wear a lifejacket with a Level 50+ in inland water.

WA

Western Australia requires lifejackets on board for each person over 12 months of age. You must wear a lifejacket of Level 100 or above in unprotected waters.

New Australian Standard on Life Jackets Required on All Boats

Recently, lifejacket regulations changed, making Australian Standard (AS) 4758 the only acceptable standard. These lifejacket standards apply to both foam and inflatable lifejackets. Many older standards like AS 1512, AS 1499 and AS 2260 are no longer compliant.

Lifejackets with an AS 4758 standard are better because:

• They have increased buoyancy
• They use new technology
• They have increased reflectivity
• They display a level 50, 50S, 100, 150+

The goal is to phase in safer, more effective designs across all recreational vessels, and failure to meet the standards can lead to penalties.

Conclusion

What’s fun, freeing, and fearless can easily turn into a no-warning nightmare. Avoiding these disasters and saving yourself from perilous situations needs some basic prep only. One of them is to wear a lifejacket.

Feeding all those whens and wheres of wearing lifejackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) does seem to be a mental gymnastics. But once you’re well-versed with the laws and keep your safety equipment in good shape, you’ll save your life and money as well.

Awareness is your best defence here. From state-by-state variations to the latest standards, maintaining inflatable lifejackets, servicing them regularly, and keeping them accessible are life-saving habits after all.