Overview
- Monash University research reports only about 14% of surveyed international visitors correctly interpret the red-and-yellow flags that mark patrolled swimming areas.
- Many respondents read red as a general danger signal due to different systems overseas, and nearly half said they would still enter the water when shown a yellow caution.
- National data show 357 drowning deaths between July 2024 and June 2025, up 27% on the 10-year average, with about one-third of victims born overseas.
- The study recommends high-risk messages like “beach closed” be displayed on red signage, urges simpler wording such as “stay between the flags” and “crushing waves,” and calls for better translations.
- Community advocates push for immediate pre-summer education campaigns, including proposals for visa-linked safety briefings, as rip currents remain a leading cause of beach drownings.