Critically Endangered Species Among Victims
New South Wales’ Shark Meshing Programme statistics, obtained through Freedom of Information laws, reveal significant under-reporting of bycatch. Recent findings suggest non-target marine animals caught in shark nets may be twice the reported numbers. The programme is criticised for its detrimental impact on marine life.
In the 2025/26 season, the nets captured only 17% of target species, totaling 36 out of 210. Non-target bycatch included 11 threatened turtles, 10 Critically Endangered grey nurse sharks, and two humpback whales. Tragically, five turtles, three sharks, and one whale were killed after entanglement.
The New South Wales Threatened Species Scientific Committee conducted a performance review, discovering discrepancies in capture reports by contractors when observers were present. This suggests systemic issues in reporting practices. Observers recorded nearly double the captures compared to contractors, raising concerns about data integrity.
The NSW Shark Management Plan mandates at least 97 net inspections per season. However, the committee found inspections as low as 57 times in some instances. This failure to meet standards prolongs animal suffering and potentially attracts more sharks because of the struggling animals.
Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist at Humane World for Animals Australia, stated, “Observers’ catch recordings being almost double that of contractors should raise serious concerns about the integrity of data that the NSW Government is basing critical safety decisions on.” He emphasised the need for 100% observer coverage to ensure accurate assessments of the shark nets’ impact.
Although the NSW Government has increased investment in drone patrol technology and training of operators, Chlebeck criticised the ongoing use of shark nets. He argued real progress requires removing these destructive nets from NSW waters. The current management of the nets faces scrutiny as calls grow to replace them with alternative safety measures to safeguard marine life and beachgoers.
In 2026, the debate over shark nets intensified as experts pushed for environmentally friendly solutions. The increasing investment in drone technology has been applauded, yet genuine improvement hinges on eliminating the harmful nets, according to conservationists.
The data highlights the urgent need for change in shark net management to prevent further unnecessary deaths of vulnerable marine species. The NSW Government must prioritise both public safety and marine conservation to address these challenges effectively.
Last updated: 5 May 2026, 7:50 am
