Shark nets

Shark nets have been used on Queensland beaches since the 1960s, but they do not create a barrier between people and sharks. Instead, they are designed to catch and kill sharks, yet they also entangle and kill many other marine animals, including threatened species.

Every year, hundreds of animals are caught in shark nets, most of them non-target species such as dolphins, turtles, whales, and harmless sharks. Sadly, many die from entanglement, drowning or injuries. Threatened species, including Grey Nurse Sharks, White Sharks, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales, continue to be entangled.

RSPCA Queensland does not support the use of lethal shark control measures such as shark nets or catch-and-kill drumlines.

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RSPCA supports humane, non-lethal ways to protect people and marine life. Some options:

• Drone and aerial monitoring to spot sharks early and warn swimmers.
• SMART drumlines and tagging systems which capture, tag and release sharks without doing large-scale harm.
• Beach surveillance and education to provide clear signage, public alerts, and behaviour-change to reduce risk.Personal deterrent devices and repellents.

Everyone deserves to enjoy safe beaches without needless harm to marine animals.

We’ve joined forces with the Nets Out Now Coalition to call on the Queensland Government to use non-lethal alternatives to protect both our marine life and beachgoers.

You can help us protect marine wildlife by calling for the removal of lethal shark nets and drumlines. Contact your local MP today and help by signing the petition.

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