Shark management and safety
Central Coast Council and the NSW Government encourage the community to be SharkSmart.
Be SharkSmart
- Download the free SharkSmart app to receive real time alerts for SMART drumline target shark capture/releases, tagged shark detections, SLS NSW and Surfing NSW drone shark sightings, and other shark related information. For iOS visit the iTunes store, or for Android visit Google Play.
- Learn how to reduce the risk of an encounter with a shark with this useful resource on the Shark Smart website:
Shark management on the Central Coast
The NSW Government’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is responsible for the Shark Management Program and all mitigation initiatives including the installation of shark nets during the beach season, SMART drumlines and listening stations, coupled with shark-spotting drones, piloted by Surf Life Saving NSW, as well as a community awareness and education campaign and research.
While Council does not manage the program, we support the NSW Government in the sharing of resources and information around shark mitigation programs on NSW beaches and estuaries. Along with other coastal LGAs, Council provided feedback on preferred shark mitigation measures suitable to the aquatic environment of the Central Coast, and which minimised harm to our sea creatures, including supporting the removal of mesh netting. The goal is to ensure that people remain safe in the water, while also better protecting marine animals in the process.
For more information on the NSW Government’s program, visit the Shark Smart website .
Shark mitigation measures: Central Coast beaches 2024-25
Drone surveillance is provided in peak swimming seasons by Surf Life Saving NSW. Operators observe potentially dangerous sharks and submit alerts to the SharkSmart app, website map and X.
Shark nets are deployed at 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong from 1 September to 31 March. They are checked every 1-3 days (weather permitting).
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FAQ
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The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) who manage the Shark Mitigation Program in NSW, invited three Councils to participate in a trial to remove one shark net from one beach at each of the three Councils invited to participate (Northern Beaches, Waverley and Central Coast Councils).
In 26 August 2025, Council resolved to participate in the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ (DPI) trial to remove shark nets from one Central Coast beach. Council resolved that the DPI are to make an informed decision on the specific Central Coast beach to be involved in the trial, based on the relevant technology and data available. Council also called on the state government to remove shark nets from all beaches and allocate resources to increased technology measures including drones, drumlines and listening stations.
However, the NSW Premier then cancelled the trial, so neither the trial, nor removal of shark nets occurred. As at 24 September 2025, Council does not have any information about when or if a trial will happen in the future.