Permanent SharkSmart Drones Expand Protection Across Queensland Beaches

Queensland beachgoers are benefiting from enhanced safety measures this summer, with the state's expanded and now permanent SharkSmart drone program monitoring more beaches than ever before.

More than 545 drone flights have already been completed across six newly monitored beaches since the start of the season, providing real-time shark surveillance and improved safety for swimmers. Since the expanded program commenced four months ago, drones have detected 149 sharks at the new locations, allowing Surf Life Saving Queensland to issue timely warnings when risks are identified.

In total, the SharkSmart drone surveillance program detected more than 862 sharks during 2025 across 16 monitored beaches, including 124 sharks measuring more than two metres in length. The drones not only assist with immediate swimmer safety but also collect valuable data on shark movements and behaviour.

The Queensland Government says the initiative forms part of the largest investment in shark management in the state's history, with a significant focus on non-lethal and technology-driven solutions.

Beaches added to the drone surveillance network this summer include Kirra Beach on the Gold Coast, Cylinder Beach on North Stradbroke Island, Tangalooma on Moreton Island during peak holiday periods, Kings Beach on the Sunshine Coast, Kelly's Beach in Bundaberg, and Agnes Water Main Beach.

The expansion follows a successful trial conducted by Surf Life Saving Queensland, which recorded nearly 18,000 drone flights between September 2020 and April 2024 across 10 locations.

Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the strengthened program targeted some of Queensland's most popular and heavily used beaches, enhancing public safety while maintaining the state's reputation as a world-class tourism destination.

He said investment in the Shark Control Program had increased by 151 per cent, delivering more than $88 million in additional funding over the life of the Shark Management Plan. Around 60 per cent of the funding is directed towards non-lethal shark mitigation strategies, including drone surveillance.

The government has committed to expanding the drone program to 20 beaches by the 2026-27 season and says it is on track to meet or exceed that target. Special approvals have also enabled drone operations in restricted airspace along the southern Gold Coast, further extending coverage in high-use areas.