Life jackets could become law in Kiama and Shellharbour to curb rock fisher deaths
After another fatal summer on the rocks, two South Coast councils are weighing up making life jackets mandatory for rock fishers along their coastlines.
Kiama Municipal Council and Shellharbour City Council are both considering joining the NSW Government's mandatory life jacket scheme for rock fishers, which already applies in nine other coastal LGAs.
The proposal follows a series of drownings on the South Coast and persistent lobbying from Surf Life Saving NSW, which says life jackets reduce the risk of fatal incidents by more than 80 per cent.
Mayors of both councils have signalled support in principle, but want assurances about signage, enforcement and community education before signing on.
A decision is expected later this year, with any mandatory scheme likely to take effect from the 2026-27 summer.
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