Environment - shark attacks in Australia

Figure 1 Source: The Conversation (c) 2025 and NSW Government Sharksmart

Shark attacks against humans in the ocean are not regular incidents in Australia despite the number of people swimming/diving/surfing in the sea and the proximity of numerous species of shark. The recent 4 attacks in 48 hours in the coastline of NSW is unusual and has given rise to discussion as to the reasons why this activitry is occuring. Figure 1 (above) shows the most common species of shark responsible for attacks over the past thirty years. Some of the shark species are known for being ocean hunters (Great White, Tiger shark) while others are well known as species found in harbours, river estuaries and inlets (Bull shark). Figure 2 below provides the statistical data of shark incidents showing that the Great White shark is by far the greatest source of attacks.

The recent spate of attacks and a more broad trend of shark activity is conisdered by several marine scientists as being linked to land activities and the impact on the ocean. The washing offshore of runoff of pesticides, waste, organic nutrients and other waste together with murky water from storms creates a perfect hunting environment for predatory sharks as bait fish become more plentiful. When humans enter that environment, they are at susbstantial risk. Shark behaviour is also not well understood and continues to be the subject of research by marine biologists. 

Figure 2: Source: The Conversation 2025

Figure 3 below provides a map of the location of the shark incidents around the Australian continent. The northern part of the continent around the coastline of northern Western Australia and the Northern Territory has far fewer attacks. This region has a sparse population and the geography is a harsh wilderness or national parks such as Kakadu National Park. The dominant species and apex predator in Northern Australia is the saltwater crocodile not the shark.

Figure 3: Source: The Conversation (c) 2025