New lifejacket laws in South Australia

On December 1, 2017, the South Australian Minister for Transport, The Hon Stephen Mullighan MP, introduced new lifejacket regulations in the State following extensive community consultation earlier in the year.

Of particular note is the requirement for all persons on board powered vessels less than 4.8m in length to wear a lifejacket at all times, including while at anchor.

SA LIFEJACKET LAWS
The changes to SA's lifejacket laws are mostly associated with the requirement to wear lifejackets at certain times and by certain participants, as opposed to simply have them on board the vessel.

For vessels less than 4.8 metres in length fitted with an engine: All persons on-board must wear a lifejacket suitable for their area of operation, at all times when underway or at anchor.

For vessels 4.8 metres to 12 metres in length: Children aged 12 or younger must wear a lifejacket at all times when on an open area of a vessel, at all times when underway or at anchor.

Anyone over the age of 12 must wear a lifejacket when on the open deck during times of heightened risk, which include:

>> When operating alone
>> When operating after sunset or before sunrise
>> When the boat is disabled
>> When crossing an ocean bar
>> At times of restricted visibility
>> When in an area subject to a gale, storm force, hurricane force, severe thunderstorm or severe weather warning from the Bureau of Meteorology

The laws also require a lifejacket to be worn, if directed by the operator of a 4.8 metre to 12 metre vessel, if reasonable to do so in the circumstances.

Lifejackets must now also be worn for users of paddleboards (including stand-up paddleboards) and surf skis when operated more than 400 metres from shore.

The changes bring SA boaters into closer alignment with the regulations in other states regarding lifejackets.

The new regulations will be enforced after a 12-month education campaign, welcomed by BIA and boating groups across SA.

More on SA's new lifejackets laws.