Key information & resources to help reduce the small risk of shark bite in NSW

Enjoy NSW beaches. Be SharkSmart

Check the latest sightings by Surf Life Saving drones and tagged shark detections before you hit the water in NSW. A better awareness and understanding of sharks and their behaviour can help everyone enjoy the beach and reduce the chances of a shark encounter.

The SharkSmart app provides information and resources such as Alerts to help you reduce the chance of a close encounter with a shark at NSW beaches and estuaries.

Stay SharkSmart with our app.

Maps

The Maps feature shows where the user is in relation to the general location of beaches with shark mitigation gear, alerts about shark-related incidents and news and real-time information from NSW’s VR4G tagged shark listening stations. Beachgoers can download the app and set it to receive tagged shark alerts at certain times and locations.

Wear OS compatible

If you have a smart watch running Wear OS by Google, the SharkSmart App also comes with a companion smart watch app to receive SharkSmart alerts. These alerts can be viewed by your location with the “around me” feature or set up to receive alerts for a region, by time or favourite beaches. This is a companion app so it is necessary for the watch to be in sync with sharksmart phone app.

Species

This feature presents images of dangerous and non-dangerous sharks and other marine animals that sting and bite for information and education purposes.

Social Media

The app has links to official NSW Department of Primary Industries social media channels including Facebook, NSW SharkSmart Twitter and YouTube. There’s also a link to the Department’s SharkSmart webpage so users can be up to date with the latest information provided by the department.

Information

Details about the NSW Shark Meshing (Bather Protection) Program are provided.

My Risk

It provides a range of interactive features and resources including a fundamental risk assessment profile that allocates a user into a ‘risky’ or ‘safer’ behaviour rating using factors understood to affect shark bite risk. Risk rating escalates higher or lower subject to the input of the user (e.g. swimming at sunrise or dawn would increase the risk). The risk level can be reduced by adjusting risky behaviour but never eliminated (unless the user doesn’t go in the water)

Other Safety Programs

The NSW Government hosts, supports and/or promotes a range of other water safety programs. Links to key programs are provided so user can get the most out of NSW beautiful waterways while staying safer.

What's New in the Latest Version 3.10

Last updated on Jun 22, 2024

The Popular ‘My Beaches’ feature now has its own tab and is even easier to use. You can use ‘Manage beaches’ feature which lets you select and follow multiple favourite beaches for for any alert.
There are now multiple filters under the filter section.
We have also made some other minor bug fixes. If you have any feedback or need support you can use the ‘’App Feedback’ section from the settings section within the app.

SharkSmart is an informative and engaging game designed to educate players about shark behavior, safety, and conservation. Through interactive gameplay and immersive experiences, the game empowers players with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate shark-inhabited waters confidently and responsibly.

Gameplay

SharkSmart features a variety of game modes that cater to players of all ages and skill levels. The "Explore" mode allows players to explore a realistic underwater environment and encounter different shark species. By observing shark behavior and learning about their habitats, players develop a deeper understanding of these fascinating creatures.

In the "Challenge" mode, players test their knowledge and reflexes by completing various tasks, such as identifying shark species, avoiding shark attacks, and performing underwater rescues. These challenges are designed to reinforce the lessons learned in the "Explore" mode and provide players with a sense of accomplishment.

Educational Value

SharkSmart is not just a game; it is also an educational tool. The game incorporates scientific research and expert advice to provide players with accurate information about sharks and their behavior. Players learn about shark anatomy, feeding habits, and the importance of protecting these apex predators.

The game also emphasizes the importance of responsible behavior in shark-inhabited waters. Players are taught how to minimize their risk of encountering sharks, how to respond appropriately if a shark approaches, and how to promote shark conservation.

Conservation Awareness

SharkSmart goes beyond education by raising awareness about the importance of shark conservation. Players learn about the threats facing sharks, such as overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change. The game encourages players to become advocates for shark protection and to support organizations working to conserve these vital species.

Conclusion

SharkSmart is a valuable resource for anyone interested in sharks, marine conservation, or simply enjoying a fun and educational game. By providing players with a deeper understanding of shark behavior and the importance of their conservation, SharkSmart empowers players to become responsible stewards of the ocean and its inhabitants.