Shark Attacks on Australia's Gold Coast (2025 Report)

Australia's Gold Coast brings many travelers from all over the world to its shores each year.

Staying knowledgeable about the grand biodiversity that fills the Australian waters is very important, especially when it involves sharks.

Knowing the protected areas, being informed on what to do during a shark attack, and staying prepared for the worst is vital when entering the entrancing ocean depths of the Gold Coast. The golden shores of Australia glisten with clear blue waters, being a paradise for surfers, but beneath the surface lurks many oceanic predators. 

How Many Shark Attacks Happen on The Gold Coast? 

Although there are a great number of sharks that patrol the warm waters of Australia, attacks remain relatively rare in the Gold Coast area.

Throughout the past 70 years, the Gold Coast has only seen around 20 attacks and only two of them were fatal. The first fatal incident took place in 1958 on a stretch of sand known as Surfer’s Paradise.

The second attack happened recently when a local Gold Coast surfer named Nick Slater was out at Snapper Rocks. As Slater was paddling around in search of waves, he was viciously mauled on the calf by a Great White.

The 46-year-old surfer unfortunately passed before lifeguards were able to bring him out of the water, marking the first fatal attack in 60 years.

These incidents have dwindled in numbers over the past few years due to local authorities creating a safe environment at protected beaches along the Gold Coast.

The Queensland government has set up giant nets and bait lines around the crowded areas of the Gold Coast, giving swimmers and surfers a comforting feeling while out at their favorite breaks. ‘ 

What Kinds of Sharks Migrate/ Live on the Gold Coast? 

The sharks that inhabit the Gold Coast’s salty currents are diverse and dense, spanning over 50 different species.

This grand expanse of ocean is host to many varying species of sharks, remaining mostly docile. You’ll find some aggressive shark species including great whites, tiger, bull, hammerhead, and bronze whaler sharks on the Gold Coast shores but they will remain beyond protective nets in most areas.

Overall beach-goers in Australia should remain vigilant but not fear for their livelihoods while out at populated beach areas. 

What Months are Sharks Most Active on the Gold Coast? 

Sharks stay most active in warmer water, meaning the summer months will bring sharks in droves to the Gold Coast shoreline.

The summer season in Australia spans from December to February and it is advised to stay in protected waters during this period.

Travelers and surfers will feel comfortable, knowing netting is set up at most of the populated breaks along the Gold Coast, keeping many aggressive sharks away.

It is also recommended that ocean enthusiasts have a strong level of respect for marine life in the area, as the ocean is their home and we are just

visitors.

Sharks don’t seek out surfers or swimmers—if you stay out of their way, they’ll stay out of yours. 

How to Protect Yourself From a Shark Attack on the Gold Coast? 

While shark attacks are rare along the Gold Coast of Australia, it’s always smart to be prepared for the unexpected. Beach-goers should remain on patrolled beaches where lifeguards keep a close eye on the ocean and swimmers.

There’s safety in numbers, so swimming near big groups of people is your best bet. Also staying close to the red and yellow swimming zones will keep your mind at ease.

Brushing up on your awareness of bait fish swarms and migratory patterns of sharks can also help you steer clear of their feeding zones.

Avoiding areas where seals have been spotted will keep you from being a shark's next meal. Lastly, staying on top of local marine reports and shark alerts can give you the heads-up you need to stay safe out in every Gold Coast line-up. 

What To Do If You Witness a Shark Attack on the Gold Coast? 

When spotting a shark attack out on the Gold Coast, it is time to act fast. Head straight for the shore, keeping your eyes locked on the spot until your feet touch the sand.

Once safe on land, seek out the nearest lifeguard or flagged patrol station and relay the exact location, the direction of the splash, and any other important information about the attack. Guide them back to the scene so they can assess and swiftly cordon off the area.

After the initial response, contact Queensland’s marine authorities or Surf Life Saving Queensland to ensure officials can alert locals, safeguarding everyone else in the water. When these steps are followed, they can mean the difference between a narrow escape and a tragedy. 

Shark Attacks on the Gold Coast

The shores of Australia are a dream destination for surfers, bringing in many visitors during the shark-heavy seasons.

Remaining informed and prepared for anything the ocean throws at you will keep all ocean-goers protected when entering the bustling waters of the Gold Coast.