The National Drowning Report 2025, published by Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia, identified 357 drowning deaths in the past year, which was 27% higher than the 10-year average.
Drowning deaths of children under five fell to 15 fatalities, 21% below the 10-year average, and half in home swimming pools. Pool owners are urged to check that their pool fence and pool gate is in good working order.
The lowest drowning rates were of children aged 5-14 years. The drowning rate rose 4-fold for 15–24-year- olds, where 44 people drowned, 38% above the 10-year average. Poor swimming skills are a major factor.
