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Government of Western Australia - Department of Fisheries

Shark sightings and response

Shark sightings should be reported to the Water Police on 9442 8600. This number is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week and reporting the sighting will activate any required response, such as the closure of beaches if required.

Reported sightings and tagged shark detections are displayed on our real-time shark activity map which can be accessed from the free SharkSmart WA app or at sharksmart.com.au. You can also follow the Surf Life Saving WA Twitter account, account for updates.

Our officers and the WA Police, with support from the Department of Parksand Wildlife, Rottnest Island Authority, coastal Local Government Authorities (ranger services) and the frontline of beach safety – Surf Life Saving WA – all play their part to keep swimmers safe.

Surf lifesavers are watching from the beaches, on the water and in the air, with public officers ready to respond to sightings and incidents.

Further information on shark sightings, detections and responses can be found on the Sharksmart website.​

Last modified: 28/04/2020 3:03 PM

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The information and advice provided by the Department of Fisheries website is made in good faith and is from sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of release onto the website. Changes in circumstances after a document is placed on the website may affect the accuracy of the information. Full disclaimer details are available at www.fish.wa.gov.au.