A call has been made for a government-led summit to address the rising number of shark attacks along the New South Wales (NSW) coast, with the aim of easing public concerns and improving safety measures for swimmers, surfers, and tourists. The proposal comes amid a recent increase in incidents, including several serious attacks and fatalities within the past eight months.

Dave Pearson, a survivor of a shark attack and founder of the global support group Bite Club, urged officials to convene a meeting similar to the 2015 summit organized by then-premier Mike Baird. That earlier gathering, held at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo, responded to a spate of attacks on the NSW north coast and resulted in the implementation of the SMART drumline program. This method involves catching, tagging, and relocating species such as great white, tiger, and bull sharks to reduce their proximity to popular beaches. The 2015 summit also seeded the trial and rollout of drone surveillance along key beaches including Ballina and Byron Bay.

Premier Chris Minns expressed support for expanding drone patrols statewide, emphasizing the importance of protecting beachgoers as well as the tourist economies that depend on coastal activities. He indicated the government would allocate funding to increase drone surveillance and was considering regulatory changes to allow multiple drones to be operated by fewer pilots, thereby maximizing coverage. Currently, restrictions near Sydney Airport require one pilot and spotter per drone, limiting operational flexibility.

The recent attacks have reignited debates over the best methods to reduce shark encounters. Some advocate for strategic culling, especially targeting bull sharks, whose attacks have caused significant injuries and fatalities. Protection laws currently prevent targeting great white sharks, and Mr. Minns said he was awaiting scientific research on shark populations before considering a cull. Contributing to ongoing consultations, Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty noted meetings with surfing organizations to gather input on shark mitigation programs.

The issue remains contentious, often split along political lines, with differing views between conservationists and those favoring culling. Mr. Pearson highlighted the division within his own support group, which counts both shark conservation advocates and individuals who hunt sharks. He stressed the need for a collaborative approach involving scientists, politicians, surfers, and lifesavers to develop an informed and balanced action plan.

Since 2015, tagging efforts have identified about 1,500 tagged great white sharks, 750 tiger sharks, and 250 bull sharks in NSW waters, but experts say the total populations and encounters remain unclear. Surfers report increased sightings, though it is debated whether this reflects a genuine rise in shark numbers or heightened observation.

Community responses to recent attacks have included public demonstrations such as a “swim out” at Coogee Beach, showing support for Leah Stewart, a local mother who lost an arm in a great white shark attack on June 13. With beach safety and tourism concerns mounting, the proposed summit aims to move beyond political polarization and foster a shared commitment to protecting both human and marine life.