Join us for the 2026 Coastal Safety Group Conference.

The Coastal Safety Group believes that life is better on the coast. But we also know that coastal environments present real risks, and that councils and land managers play a critical role in keeping communities safe around the water. The most effective way to manage these risks is byworking together, sharing knowledge, and building practical capability across the sector.

The 2026 conference will focus on risk-based practice in pursuit of world-class water safety services, bringing together coastal managers, lifeguards, and water safety professionals from across the country.

Please note: due to lower-than-expected registrations for the practical component, the originally planned Day Two program at Penrith Whitewater Stadium will no longer proceed. The conference will now be delivered as a focused one-day event on 7 May at Penrith Panthers.

The conference will feature a full day of presentations and discussions exploring the legal responsibilities and liabilities faced by land managers, along with practical approaches to risk mitigation and coastal safety management.

Topics include:

• Legal liability and beach safety

• Drowning data and emerging risks

• Beach signage innovation

• Public rescue equipment

• Emergency response beacons

• Lifeguard service models

• Community education initiatives

This year marks the first time the Coastal Safety Group Conference will be held in Western Sydney, providing a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and strengthen partnerships across the coastal safety sector.

We look forward to welcoming you for a day of learning, collaboration and practical discussion in pursuit of safer coastal communities.