Popular swimming beaches in Port Stephens will become temporary no-go zones for jet skis and power boats this summer, as authorities launch a trial to separate high-powered vessels from families and swimmers.
Holiday Safety Trial Launched
The New South Wales Maritime authority has announced a four-week trial establishing three exclusion zones along the Port Stephens coastline. The trial will run from December 24, 2025, until January 26, 2026.
NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings described the move as a proactive traffic management strategy. "This is to keep jet skiers and power boats out of areas where people can safely swim," he said. "We want people to enjoy Port Stephens but we also want to get through this holiday season without anyone being killed or seriously injured."
Where the Restrictions Apply
The temporary exclusion zones cover approximately 800 metres of shoreline in total. All powered vessels must stay at least 30 metres from the shoreline in these designated areas. The specific locations are:
- A 185-metre section on the eastern side of Dutchmans Beach.
- A 230-metre stretch from Fly Point southwest to midway along Nelson Bay Beach.
- A 430-metre zone west from the jetty at Shoal Bay.
There are no restrictions on where swimmers or beachgoers can set up, aiming to give them peace of mind. The trial responds to a massive seasonal influx, with the local population estimated to swell by 50,000 to 150,000 residents, plus up to 30,000 day visitors.
Managing a Changing Waterway
Mr Hutchings noted an exponential increase in jet ski use across NSW, with personal watercraft now making up 40% of all new boat sales. The state has issued more than 95,000 jet ski licences.
"They have, in some cases, changed the dynamic of some waterways, and certainly here at Port Stephens, it gets very busy," he explained. The goal is to separate these high-speed activities from those who simply want to swim or let children play safely with a spade.
Marine Area Command Sergeant Clint Brown, based at Port Stephens, said most riders do the right thing, but warned that dangerous behaviour would not be tolerated. "Those that do come on our waterway and ride in a dangerous and menacing manner... will be hit with the full force of the law," he stated.
NSW Maritime officers and NSW Police will patrol the areas daily to conduct compliance checks and educate the public. Authorities urge all water users to know the local rules, including speed limits, and act responsibly.
The community is invited to provide feedback on the trial via QR codes on signage or online before January 27. The results will determine whether these localised safety zones become a permanent fixture to protect all water users.
