NSW issues critical beach safety warning after four shark attacks in 48 hours, prompting multiple closures

Multiple incidents trigger heightened coastal safety measures

A critical beach safety warning has been issued in New South Wales after four shark attacks were reported within a 48-hour period, prompting temporary closures and an expanded surveillance response. The incidents span Sydney and the state’s Mid North Coast, with authorities urging swimmers, surfers and other ocean users to follow official beach closures and alerts.

The most recent reported attack occurred at Point Plomer, near Port Macquarie, where a 39-year-old surfer was bitten and taken to hospital with minor leg injuries. In response, beaches in the area were closed while aerial surveillance was deployed to monitor shark activity.

Two children and one adult reported in critical condition in Sydney incidents

In Sydney, the cluster of incidents included attacks that left at least two children and one adult with critical injuries, and triggered rolling beach closures and increased patrols. Emergency services and members of the public assisted victims at multiple locations, while authorities warned that conditions can change rapidly and that the presence of mitigation measures does not eliminate risk.

How shark monitoring and alerts work in NSW

New South Wales’ shark risk management relies on layered detection and response measures rather than any single barrier. Key elements include real-time public alerts, drone surveillance during peak periods, and tracking of tagged sharks through listening stations along the coastline. Alerts can be tailored by region and time through the state’s SharkSmart notification system.

Local councils, including in the Wollongong area, state that lifeguards may clear the water and close beaches when sharks are sighted near patrolled swimming areas, with drones and watercraft used to help track animals and reduce immediate risk.

Expanded drone coverage and seasonal netting already in place

The current summer season has seen additional investment in aerial surveillance. The NSW Government announced a $2.5 million increase to expand drone patrols, begin coverage earlier in the season and extend operations through late March 2026, alongside an existing shark management budget that supports drone surveillance at dozens of beaches over the summer holiday period.

Separately, shark nets are deployed seasonally at a set of beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong. Authorities have previously stressed that nets are not designed to provide a guarantee against shark encounters, and that beachgoers should continue to follow closures, patrol flags and safety directions.

What beachgoers are being asked to do now

• Check beach status and official alerts before entering the water.
• Swim between red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches.
• Follow instructions to leave the water immediately when directed by lifeguards.
• Avoid swimming or surfing in poor visibility, particularly after storms or in murky water.

Authorities say beach closures and real-time alerts remain the primary tools for reducing immediate risk following confirmed incidents or sightings.

Investigations into the individual incidents are continuing, while surveillance operations remain active at several affected locations.