Despite a recent fatal shark attack at Long Reef beach in Sydney, experts say the number of deaths from shark bites in Australia is not rising, thanks to improved emergency response and technology. Mercury Psillakis, a surfer, was killed last Saturday by what is believed to be a 3.5-metre great white, but his family noted he was vigilant about ocean risks.
According to the Australian Shark Incident Database, there were 1,285 shark incidents between 1791 and June 2025. This year has seen four fatalities, all unprovoked. Last year, there were 13 unprovoked bites with no deaths, down from 23 in 2023, which had four fatalities. Professor Charlie Huveneers from Flinders University notes an increase in bites over the last two decades, attributed to factors like coastal population growth, climate change, and more people in the water.
However, fatalities per capita are likely the same or lower than in the 1930s, says Professor Rob Harcourt from Macquarie University, due to faster emergency responses, tourniquet kits at surf clubs, and first aid training. The odds of being bitten remain tiny; Surf Life Saving Australia recorded 16.6 million coastal visits last year.
Australia has become a world leader in shark research, employing technologies such as smart drumlines, live tracking, drones, and high-tech wetsuits to reduce risks. Dr Adrian Gutteridge from the Marine Stewardship Council emphasises the importance of healthy oceans and shark populations, while acknowledging the need for safety measures.
