Australian Drowning Rates Experience Significant Decline Over Two Decades
A recent study conducted by Royal Life Saving Australia has revealed a notable decrease in drowning incidents across the country, with rates dropping by nearly 25% over the last 20 years. This decline is particularly pronounced among young children, although the report indicates ongoing challenges in preventing drownings among migrant communities and in specific geographic areas, such as rivers and beaches.
The research analyzed data from approximately 5,700 cases of unintentional drowning deaths recorded between 2002 and 2022. The findings are set to inform revisions to the Australian Water Safety Strategy, which will be discussed at the National Water Safety Summit in Sydney on July 24-25, 2025. The study is published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.
Overall, drowning fatalities fell by 24.1% during the study period, with the most significant reduction observed in children aged 0-4 years, whose drowning rates decreased by 59.2%. While all age demographics showed a decline in drowning rates, the 15-17 age group did not experience a similar trend. Notably, individuals aged 65 and older accounted for 20.1% of drowning deaths during this time, with little change in their rates over two decades.
The lead researcher from the Royal Life Saving Society-Australia and James Cook University emphasized the importance of the progress made in reducing drowning incidents among children. However, the study also pointed out stagnation in improvement for older Australians and males, particularly in river and beach settings.
Rivers and creeks remain the most common locations for drowning incidents, responsible for 26.3% of cases, although this figure has decreased by 21.6%. Beaches accounted for 17.9% of drowning deaths, with no significant change in rates over the same period. Those residing in remote or disadvantaged communities continue to face the highest risks of drowning.
The analysis also highlighted a gender disparity, with males being nearly four times more likely to drown than females. Alcohol consumption is identified as a contributing factor in 23.9% of drowning fatalities, while pre-existing medical conditions were present in 36.0% of cases, predominantly among older individuals.
The researchers concluded that drowning is a widespread issue that extends beyond childhood, impacting individuals across all demographics in Australia. They stress the necessity for localized interventions, addressing issues related to alcohol and drug use, and improving data collection to achieve the ambitious goal of halving drowning deaths by 2030 as outlined in the Australian Water Safety Strategy.
It is worth noting that while this study shows a positive trend in drowning prevention, preliminary data from the 2024 National Drowning Report indicated an increase in drowning incidents in the years following the pandemic.