An additional 500 subsidised personal shark deterrent devices will be made available to surfers following an announcement by Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly last week.
The additional 500 rebates for personal shark deterrent devices takes the total made available to Western Australian surfers and divers to 4,000 devices.
Mr Kelly said more than 3,400 of the devices had been purchased, with almost 500 of those purchased by surfers.
"Autumn is a busy time for our coastline, with bigger swells drawing in large crowds of surfers and the salmon run drawing in wildlife closer to shore," he said.
"As always, people need to use their sea sense to help keep themselves safe.
"The easiest way for a surfer or diver to use their sea sense is to purchase and use a scientifically proven personal shark deterrent device."
The subsidy program, launched in May 2017, delivered on a McGowan Government election promise to provide a world-first subsidy for WA water users as part of a smarter, science-based approach to shark hazard mitigation.
"It's great news that more than 3,400 Western Australians have so far put their personal safety first and purchased a university-tested and proven device through the subsidy program," Mr Kelly said.
"For as little as $299, surfers can significantly improve their own safety. It's a small price to pay for a device that has the potential to save your life.
"As well as the personal shark deterrent subsidy, we are also helping surfers keep safe through a partnership with Surfing WA to enhance patrols and provide free first aid training to surfers."
There are two approved devices available for purchase.
The Ocean Guardian FREEDOM7(tm) is a device primarily used by divers; it can be purchased from a registered retailer involved in the subsidy program for $399.
The Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+ Surf(tm) is a device specifically designed for surfers and can be used on multiple boards with the purchase of additional tail pad kits.
This device can be purchased for $299 from a registered retailer involved in the program. It was added to the program in May 2018 when university testing showed it significantly reduced the chance of a great white shark encounter.
To read the scientific reports on each device and for more information about the devices, visit www.sharksmart.com.au/staying-safe/rebate-faqs
