Police are urging the community to stay alert on the water as crowds are expected to pack boats, jet skis, fishing spots and swimming areas to beat the heat over coming days.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe to extreme heatwave warning for most of the state this week, with temperatures expected to reach the high thirties to mid forties.
Marine Area Command will be deploying all available resources to patrol waterways across the state and keep the community safe.
Police and partner marine agencies will be out patrolling, and officers will issue fines and lay charges for not wearing lifejackets, dangerous driving of a boat or jet ski, licence infringements and other offences detected on the water.
In December 2025, Marine Area Command officers made 521 legal actions and issued 284 infringement notices for various marine offences, 249 cautions and laid 21 charges.
Of those, police took 141 legal actions for personal watercraft-related offences.
There were 62 marine safety-related legal actions issued against people aged 16 years old and under, including 21 legal actions involving jet skis.
Police conducted 925 breath tests and 64 drug tests, with five legal actions taken.
Officers carried out 1818 vessel inspections and 1397 fisheries inspections.
Marine Area Command officers will continue to target liquor license compliance by licenced charter vessels, with 24 business inspections conducted in December 2025.
Marine Area Commander, Acting Superintendent Phillip Malligan said most people did the right thing on the water but reminded skippers and jet ski riders of their responsibilities.
"We're urging anyone heading out on a boat or jet ski to slow down, stay alert and look out for others — one reckless move can put lives at risk," Acting Superintendent Malligan said.
"Wear a lifejacket, check your gear and know your limits. These are simple steps that save lives every summer.
"Jet skis aren't toys. Keep your distance from swimmers and other vessels."
Acting Superintendent Malligan reminded people that alcohol and water did not mix, and officers would be conducting random breath and drug tests.
He reminded people to wear a life jacket while fishing on a boat or rock shelf and urged them to monitor weather conditions and warnings.
"Never turn your back on the ocean and always watch the waves," Acting Superintendent Malligan said.
"If you plan on swimming, please do so at patrolled locations and between the flags.
"We have assisted with several swimming-related incidents recently.
"If you are not a strong swimmer, take the appropriate precautions and listen to the advice of the surf lifesavers and lifeguards."
