What’s Happening?
From 1 July 2025, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) and enforcement agencies will begin issuing fines for non-compliance with Queensland’s updated lifejacket laws, which were first introduced on 1 December 2024. These new laws are designed to protect boaties and their passengers during high-risk situations, following a six-month education and awareness campaign.
Why It Matters
“We want every Queenslander to enjoy the water safely, and that starts with wearing a lifejacket when it matters most,” MSQ stated.
The rules are based on hard data. Between 2019 and 2023, 64 people died in boating incidents in Queensland, and only five of them were wearing lifejackets. The new laws aim to close that gap, ensuring lifejackets are worn when conditions are known to be more dangerous.
Local Impact – Toowoomba Residents Take Note
While Toowoomba is inland, many residents travel to coastal and inland waterways during the winter school holidays. These new lifejacket rules will apply whether they’re boating at the coast or at inland lakes and dams.
You must wear a lifejacket:
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When boating alone or only with children under 12 in open boats under 4.8 metres while underway
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When boating at night in open boats under 4.8 metres while underway
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When crossing coastal bars or being in open areas of any boat underway
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If aged 1 to under 12 years in any open vessel or open boat area
Vessels covered include:
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Small sailing boats
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Kayaks and canoes
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Pedal boats
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Rafts and inflatables
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Rowboats
(Note: SLSA surfboats are excluded from this rule.)
By the Numbers:
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64 boating fatalities in QLD from 2019–2023, only 5 were wearing life jackets
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$333 minimum on-the-spot fine for non-compliance
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More than 1 million Queenslanders hold recreational boating licences
Zoom In
These rules specifically target high-risk conditions. Solo boating, nighttime operations, and open vessels under 4.8m have been flagged as leading contributors to fatal accidents. The new laws prioritise children’s safety, recognising that young passengers are at greater risk in emergencies.
Many of the vessels covered like kayaks, paddle boats, and small sailing crafts are common in recreational use, especially among families and first-time boaters. The rule mandating that children aged 1–11 must wear lifejackets in open boats reflects a significant step in addressing preventable drownings.
Zoom Out
The six-month education period since December 2024 has included signage upgrades, community outreach, and direct engagement at marinas and boat ramps. As of 1 July, enforcement begins. Queensland joins other states in shifting from awareness to active penalties, sending a strong signal ahead of the busy winter boating season.
What to Look For Next?
Heading out on the water this winter?
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Inspect your vessel and safety gear
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Check lifejacket labels and ensure compliance with current standards
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Visit MSQ’s website for the full legal checklist and FAQs
Wearing a lifejacket doesn’t just comply with the law, it saves lives.
