Onkaparinga Council will monitor jet ski use and misuse on southern beaches this summer, in response to community concerns.

The council has received requests and a petition from the local community asking it to ban jet skis at Maslin Beach, Port Willunga Beach, Aldinga Beach, and Sellicks Beach.

A council spokesperson says the power to restrict personal watercraft is the remit of Marine Safety SA – Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT).

“DIT's advice has informed our approach this summer to focus on increasing education and compliance, including encouraging our community to report non-compliant behaviour via the Marine Safety online tool.  https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/boating-and-marine/boat-and-marine-reporting/reporting-boat-incidents/safety-concern 

It will closely monitor complaints and incidents before considering a watercraft exclusion zone.

“DIT have advised they will consider variable message signs in key locations and boosting patrols for targeted compliance.

“We will complement these initiatives and will continue to collaborate with DIT (Marine Safety SA) to promote safe personal watercraft use on our beaches this summer.

“A report detailing initiatives and incidents will be prepared at the end of Summer, March 2024.”