Significant Decline in Drowning Rates in Australia Over Two Decades

Australia has achieved a nearly 25% reduction in drowning deaths over the past two decades, with significant improvements among children, though risks remain for older adults and high-risk locations like rivers and beaches.

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A recent comprehensive study conducted by Royal Life Saving Australia and published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health reveals a remarkable 24.1% reduction in drowning deaths across Australia over the past 20 years. The analysis, which examined nearly 5,700 unintentional drowning incidents between 2002 and 2022, highlights notable improvements in safety, especially among young children. Drowning rates among children aged 0–4 years have plummeted by nearly 60%, underscoring the effectiveness of targeted prevention strategies.

Despite these positive trends, the study identifies ongoing challenges in specific populations and locations. Drowning incidents among older adults (65+) have remained relatively consistent, accounting for about 20% of all drowning deaths during the period. Furthermore, rivers and creeks continue to be the leading sites for drownings, representing over a quarter of cases, although incidents in these areas have decreased by 21.6%. Beaches, which account for nearly 18% of drownings, have shown no significant change over the years.

Males are significantly more at risk, drowning at a rate nearly four times that of females. Alcohol consumption is a significant factor, present in nearly a quarter of drowning cases, while pre-existing medical conditions contribute to over a third of incidents, predominantly among older individuals. These findings emphasize the importance of localized interventions, addressing alcohol and drug use, and improving data collection for better prevention.

Lead author Lauren Miller emphasized that while Australia's progress in reducing childhood drownings is commendable, efforts must now focus on vulnerable groups such as older adults and communities in remote or disadvantaged areas. The study also underscores the need for continuous community engagement, policy adjustments, and targeted safety measures to achieve the national goal of halving drowning deaths by 2030.

The findings will inform updates to the Australian Water Safety Strategy, which is currently being prepared for public consultation during the National Water Safety Summit scheduled for July 24–25, 2025. As Australia continues to make strides in water safety, these insights aim to guide policies and initiatives to protect all Australians from drowning-related risks.