List of fatal shark attacks in Australia


This is a list of fatal shark attacks in Australia. The Australian Shark-Incident Database has recorded that between 1791 and November 2025 there were 312 fatal shark attacks in Australia.
Since 2000 there have been 59 fatal shark attacks in Australia, including 24 incidents since 2020.

2020s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
2026-01-1816:20NSWSydney Harbour - Vaucluse - Shark Beach estuary - baybulljumping off rocksNicolas Anticmale12major lacerations - legs
2025-11-2706:30NSWCrowdy Bay - Kylies BeachbullswimmingLivia Mulheimfemale25major lacerations
2025-09-0610:00NSWSydney - Long Reef BeachcoastalwhitesurfingMercury Psillakismale57leg and arm severed
2025-03-1012:10WAEsperance - Wharton Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingSteven Paynemale37body not recovered1277
2025-02-0316:45QldMoreton Bay - Bribie Island - Woorim Beachcoastal - surf beachbullswimmingCharlize Zmudafemale17Injuries to upper body1271
2025-01-02SAAustralian Bight - Westallcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingLance Applebymale26body not recovered1269
2024-12-2816:37QldKeppel Bay - Humpy Islandisland - open oceanspearfishingLuke Walfordmale40major laceration - neck1268
2023-12-2813:30SASpencer Gulf - Yorke Peninsula - Ethel Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingKhai Cowleymale15leg bitten off1249
2023-10-3110:20SAAustralian Bight - Streaky Baycoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingTod Gendlemale55body not recovered1240
2023-05-13SAAustralian Bight - Eyre Peninsula - Walkers Rockscoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingSimon Baccanellomale46remains not recovered1231
2023-02-0415:00WASwan River - N Fremantleriverbullswimming after jumping off jet skiStella Berryfemale16major lacerations - leg1223
2022-02-1616:35NSWLittle Bay Beach, Sydneycoastal - bay to open oceanwhiteswimmingSimon Nellistmale35consumed1202
2022-11-0610:00WAFremantle - Port BeachcoastalwhiteswimmingPaul Millachipmale57bitten in half1193
2021-09-0511:45NSWCoffs Harbour - Emerald Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingTimothy Thompsonmale31Multiple injuries1189
2021-05-1811:00NSWForster - Tuncurry Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingMark Sanguinettimale59leg injury1181
2021-01-2117:00SAAustralian Bight - Eyre Peninsula - Walkers Rockscoastal - surf beachwhitesnorkelingDuncan Crawmale32major lacerations1168
2020-11-2208:45WABroome - Cable BeachcoastalbullsurfingCharles Cernoborimale551163
2020-10-0916:00WAEsperance - Wylie Baycoastal - bay to open oceanwhitesurfingAndrew Sharpemale52body not recovered1158
2020-09-0817:00QldGold Coast - Greenmount BeachcoastalwhitesurfingNick Slatermale461154
2020-07-1114:30NSWNorthern Rivers - Wooli Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingMani Hart-Devillemale15legs injured1149
2020-07-0414:00QldFraser Island - Indian Headcoastal - open oceanwhalerspearfishingMatthew Trattmale36lacerations - leg, foot1147
2020-06-0710:00NSWKingscliff - Casuarina Beachcoastal - ocean beachwhitesurfingRob Pedrettimale60thigh bitten1142
2020-04-06QldNorth West Islandisland - open ocean reefswimmingZachary Robbamale23injuries to arm, leg, torso1137
2020-01-0513:00WAEsperance - Cull Islandisland - open oceanwhitedivingGary Johnsonmale571131

2010s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
2018-11-0517:30QldWhitsunday Islands - Cid HarbourcoastalswimmingDaniel Christidismale33lacerations - leg, arm1096
2017-04-1716:00WAEsperance - Wylie Baycoastal - bay to open oceanwhitesurfingLaeticia Brouwerfemale17leg ripped off1064
2016-06-05Late morningWAPerth - Mindarie - One Mile Reefpelagic - reefwhitedivingDoreen Collyerfemale603 limbs removed1035
2016-05-31DuskWAMandurah - Gearies Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingBen Gerringmale29leg removed1033
2016-02-16QldKennedy ShoalwhitedivingSteven Fostermale54body not recovered
2015-07-2507:00TasLachlan Point - Maria Islandcoastal - bay to open oceanwhitedivingDamian Johnsonmale46major lacerations - torso, pelvic region1007
2015-02-0909:55NSWBallina - Shelly Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingTadashi Nakaharamale41legs severed995
2014-12-3012:20WACheynes Beachcoastal - beach to open oceanwhitespearfishingJay Muscatmale17multiple injuries987
2014-12-1511:30QldPort Douglas - Rudder Reefisland open ocean - reeftigerspearfishingDaniel Smithmale18major lacerations - arm, thigh988
2014-09-0910:40NSWByron Bay - Clarkes Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesnorkellingPaul Wilcoxmale50major lacerations - thigh977
2014-04-0308:50NSWSouth Coast - Tathra Beachcoastalpresumed to be bronze whalerswimmingChristine Armstrongfemale63remains not recovered968
2014-02-0812:00SAGulf St Vincent - Yorke Peninsula - Goldsmith Beachcoastalwhitespearfishingwith bait fishSam Kellettmale28remains not recovered964
2013-11-3014:00NSWCoffs - Campbells Beachcoastaltigersurfing, in an area with whales presentZac Youngmale19major lacerations - arm, torso, leg961
2013-11-2309:00WAGracetown - Umbies Breakcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfing, in an area with dolphins and baitfish presentChris Boydmale35major lacerations - leg960
2012-07-1409:05WAWedge Islandcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingBen Lindenmale24remains not recovered943
2012-03-3109:30WABunbury - Stratham Beachcoastal - ocean beachwhitedivingPeter Kurmannmale33935
2011-10-2213:25WARottnest Island - Little Armstrong Baycoastal - surf beachwhitedivingGeorge Wainwrightmale32major lacerations - torso919
2011-10-0908:10WAPerth - Cottesloe Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingBryn Martinmale64eaten whole921
2011-09-0413:26WADunsborough - Bunker Bay - The Boneyardscoastal - surf beachwhitesurfing, in an area with dolphins and seals presentKyle James Burdenmale21major lacerations - leg918
2011-08-2919:30QldPalm island - Challenger Bayisland open oceantigerswimming'Rooster'male48major lacerations - torso917
2011-02-1718:20SAAustralian Bight - Coffin Bay - Perforated Islandisland open oceanwhites - 2diving, in an area with other sharks presentPeter Clarksonmale49remains not recovered911
2010-08-1708:05WAGracetown - Cowaramup Bay - South Point Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfing, in an area with sealsNicholas Edwardsmale31leg severed906

2000s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
2008-12-2707:00WARockingham - Port Kennedy Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesnorkelingBrian Guestmale51remains not recovered867
2008-04-0808:05NSWBallina - Lighthouse Beachcoastal - surf beachbullsurfingPeter Edmondsmale16major lacerations - thigh, calf860
2006-01-0717:15QldNorth Stradbroke Island - Amity Pointcoastal - surf beachbullswimmingSarah Whileyfemale21major lacerations - leg, hand828
2005-08-2416:10SAGulf St Vincent - Adelaide - Glenelg Beachcoastal - ocean beachwhitedivingJarrod Stehbensmale23major laceration - torso819
2005-03-1914:00WAHoutman Abrolhos - Pelsaert Island - Wreck Pointisland open oceanwhitesnorkelingGeoffrey Braziermale26major laceration - torso815
2004-12-1615:15SAGulf St Vincent - Adelaide - West Beachcoastal - beach to open oceanwhite - 2surfingNick Petersonmale18fully consumed811
2004-12-1113:00QldPort Douglas - Opal Reefpelagic - reeftigerspearfishingMark Thompsonmale38major laceration - thigh810
2004-07-1014:10WAGracetown - Lefthanders near Margaret Rivercoastal - surf beachwhite - 2surfingBradley Smithmale30eaten whole804
2003-02-08MorningQldGold Coastriverbullswimming, in an area with Pinnipeds presentBob Purcellmale84major lacerations - leg779
2002-12-1602:30QldLake Heron, Miami LakesriverbullswimmingBeau Martinmale23major lacerations - torso, leg775
2002-04-3012:40SAAustralian Bight - Smoky Bay - near Saddle Pointcoastalwhitediving for scallopsPaul Bucklandmale23major lacerations - leg770
2000-11-0606:30WAPerth - Cottesloe Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimming, in an area with a seal presentKen Crewmale49torso attacked749
2000-09-2513:00SAAustralian Bight - Eyre Peninsula - Elliston - Blackscoastal - reefwhitesurfing near a seal and dolphinsJevan Wrightmale17fully consumed743
2000-09-2407:30SAAustralian Bight - Ceduna - Cactus Beachcoastal - reefwhitesurfing, in an area with Pinnipeds presentCameron Bayesmale25fully consumed744

1990s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1999-05-2914:30SASpencer Gulf - Yorke Peninsula - Hardwicke Bay - Flahertys Beachcoastalwhiteboarding or windsurfingTony Donoghuemale22body not recovered729
1998-06-2814:00SAAustralian Bight - S Neptune Islandcoastalwhitesnorkeling, in an area with seals presentDoug Cheshermale26leg injuries723
1997-01-2018:00WAGeraldtontigerwindsurfingWerner Schonhofermale41eaten whole
1995-09-1115:00WAHopetoun - Honeymoon Islandisland open oceanwhitedivingDavid Alan Weirmale29eaten in half691
1993-11-2115:15WABroome - Roebuck Baycoastal - bay to open oceantigerdivingRichard Peter Bisleymale27678
1993-06-0909:30NSWByron Bay - Julian Rockscoastal - surf beachwhitedivingJohn Fordmale31consumed677
1993-06-0510:55TasTenth Island - Georgetownisland open oceanwhitediving, in an area with seals and scuba diving presentTherese Cartwrightfemale35remains not recovered676
1992-10-0114:30QldMoreton Island - North PointcoastalwhitesurfingMichael Dochertymale28672
1991-09-0815:00SAGulf St Vincent - Aldinga BeachcoastalwhitedivingJonathon Leemale19major lacerations - torso665
1990-04-0814:00QldTownsville - Dingo Reefisland open ocean - reeftigersnorkeling, freediving for trochusRobert Bullenmale37body not recovered653

1980s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1989-03-0920:15SAEncounter Bay - Waitpinga BeachcoastalwhitesurfingMatthew Foalemale27major lacerations - thigh643
1988-11-08Early morningQldNorth Keppel Island, off Yeppoonopen oceantiger - 3swimming with a dinghy, after ship sankBruce Coucommale17bitten in torso before shark swam away, body in mouth636
1988-11-07NightfallQldNorth Keppel Island, off Yeppoontiger - 2swimming with a dinghy, after ship sankCedric Coucommale62635
1987-09-18SAAdelaide - Marino Rockscoastalwhitediving, in an area with dolphins presentTerrance Gibsonmale47628
1987-02VicMornington Peninsula - Wilsons Promcoastal - open oceanwhitesurfing, in an area withspearfishingmalemajor lacerations625
1986-01QldTorres Strait - Muralag (Prince of Wales Island)island open oceantigerspearfishingmale617
1985-03-0312:30SASpencer Gulf - Port Lincoln - Wisemans Beachcoastalwhitediving for scallopsShirley Durdinfemale33major lacerations - torso; victim consumed614
1984-11-3012:33QldMackay - Blacks Beachcoastal - surf beachtigerfell into water while sailing on catamaranNicholas Bosmale16major lacerations - arm, head, torso611
1983-07-2604:00QldGreat Barrier Reef - off Lodestone Reefocean - pelagictigeradrift after prawn trawling vessel sankLinda Ann Hortonfemale21remains not recovered; seized by the chest and taken underwater601
1983-07-25NightQldGreat Barrier Reef - off Lodestone Reefpelagictigerswimming from the New VentureDennis Patrick Murphymale24remains not recovered; leg bitten, then dragged underwater600
1982-03-0712:00NSWByron Bay - Tallow Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitesurfingMartin Fordmale20major lacerations - leg598
1982-02-28TasSouth Cape Baycoastal - bay to open oceanwhiteGeert Talenmale32remains not recovered597

1970s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categoryDSpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1977-08-2316:00QldSunshine Coast - Caloundra - Buddina Beach coastal - surf beachtigerfloating on an inflatable raftGeorge Waltermale25major lacerations - arm, torso, foot579
1977-03-1316:30Qldnear Moreton Island in Moreton Baycoastaltigerdrifting in the sea, clinging to an icebox for 2 days, after cabin cruiser was struck by a freight shipVictor Beavermale74taken577
1977-03-1316:30Qldnear Moreton Island in Moreton Baycoastaltigerdrifting in the sea, clinging to an icebox for 2 days, after cabin cruiser was struck by a freight shipJohn Hayesmale45remains not recovered576
1975-07-3013:00TasBruny Island - Fluted Capecoastal - open oceanwhitedivingRobert Slackmale37remains not recovered572
1975-02-1018:00SAAustralian Bight - Ceduna - Point Sinclaircoastal - bay to open oceanwhiteswimming near cray pots, in water containing fresh blood and offalWade Shipardmale12major lacerations - bit leg off568
1975-01-1911:00SAAustralian Bight - Port Lincoln - Almonta BeachcoastalwhitesurfingDavid Barrowmanmale17major lacerations - torso566
1974-09-01QldStradbroke Island - Jumpinpinpelagic - open oceantigerdrifting in the current after boat sankAdrian Te Veluwemale23body never found564
1974-01-0913:00SAAustralian Bight - Streaky Bay - HighcliffcoastalwhitedivingTerry Manuelmale26major lacerations - arm, leg, torso563
1971-12-0515:00QldGladstone - Cape Capricornopen oceantigerswimmingGregory Carrollmale20remains not recovered552
1971-09-05SAGulf St Vincent - AdelaidecoastalfishingLeslie Harrismale51suffered three heart attacks shortly after a shark bite

1960s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1967-08-1911:00WAJurien Baycoastal - bay to open oceanwhitespearfishing, in an area with pinnipeds and other sharks presentRobert Bartlemale23major laceration - torso 543
1966-05-20After darkNSWJervis Baycoastal - baywhiteShipwreckDaniel Mangelmale38major lacerations - arm, shoulder
1966-05-20NightNSWJervis Baycoastal - baywhiteShipwreckKor Van Heldenmale40consumed
1965-11-21Qldnear Brisbaneunconfirmed fishing from a boat when pulled overboard by hooked sharkGordon Hobrookmale43
1964-11-1813:30QldFingal Beach, near Tweed Headsswimming out to rescue swimmers in difficultyGlenthorne Priormale29
1963-01-2813:30NSWSydney Harbour - Middle Harbourestuary - baybullstanding in waterMarcia Hathawayfemale32major lacerations - leg523
1962-12-0914:30SAGulf St Vincent - Carrickalinga Headlandcoastalwhitespearfishing, with baitfishGeoffrey Cornermale16major lacerations - leg522
1961-12-2816:15QldMackay - Lamberts Beachcoastal - surf beachtigerswimmingMargaret Hobbsfemale18major lacerations - arms, leg; died the next day516
1961-12-1806:15QldSunshine Coast - Noosa Heads - Main Beachcoastal - surf beachbullsurfingJohn Grayson Andrewsmale22major lacerations - leg, arm514
1960-01-1615:30NSWSydney Harbour - Roseville Bridgeestuary - baybullsnorkeling, in an area with baitfish presentKenneth Murraymale13major lacerations - leg 499

1950s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1959-12-1906:00QldMoreton Bay - off Wynnumtigerswimming from dinghy to retrieve oar in heavy seasStanley Arthur Mullenmale29major lacerations496
1959-01-1716:30TasPort Arthur - Safety Covecoastal - bay to open oceanwhite - multipleswimmingBrian Derrymale22body not recovered489
1958-11-2315:15QldSurfers ParadisecoastaltigerswimmingPeter Gerard Spronkmale21major lacerations - torso486
1958-03QldTorres Strait - Masig (Yorke) Islandisland open oceantigerspearfishingmale24major lacerations - leg483
1957-02WACape Levequecoastal - open oceantigerswimmingmale475
1956-03-0416:45VicPortsea Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingJohn Wishartmale26471
1956-02-2611:00QldMackay - Pioneer River - Rocklea ReachriverbullswimmingBarry Keith Antoninimale15major lacerations - leg467
1955-03-0918:00NSWCentral Coast - Wamberal BeachcoastalwhiteswimmingNoel Langfordmale22body not recovered464
1955-02-0514:35NSWSydney Harbour - Sugarloaf Bayestuary - baybullswimmingBruno Rautenbergmale25major lacerations - leg463
1955-01-1814:30NSWSydney Harbour - BalmoralBeach - Wyargine Pointestuary - baybullspearfishingJohn Willismale13major lacerations - leg, hand462
1954-12-1111:00VicPoint LonsdalewhiteswimmingLawrence Burnsmale23
1954-09-04QldTorres Strait - Erub (Darley Island)island open oceantigerspearfishing, hunting crayfishKapua Gutchenmale35major lacerations461
1954-02-2717:15NSWCentral Coast - The EntrancecoastalwhiteswimmingReg Fabriziusmale23major lacerations - thigh459
1951-12-0616:00NSWNewcastle - Merewether BeachcoastalwhiteswimmingFrank Olkulichmale21major lacerations - arm, leg, torso442
1951-10-2219:10QldTownsville - Kissing Point Beach ocean bathscoastaltigerswimmingArthur James Kenealeymale42major lacerations - hand, torso, thigh441
1951-09-04QldFitzroy River, near Rockhamptonriverbullmajor lacerations - leg, torso; found on luxury yachtDr. E. Al Joskemale56major lacerations - leg, torso440
1950-12-1616:15QldBrisbane - Palm Beach North, north of Burleigh Headscoastaltigertreading waterDesmond Quinlan, a lifesavermale20major lacerations - leg, torso436
1950-04-09QldCairns - Ella Bay - Cooper Pointcoastaltigerswimming, after shipwreckJohn McDonaldmale50major lacerations433

1940s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1949-11-12VicPort Phillip - Middle Brighton Piercoastal - bayunknownunknownJohn W Smithmalebody, without head or hands found in bay
1949-08-2813:20QldCairns - Yorkeys Knob BeachcoastaltigerswimmingJames Howardmale34major lacerations - torso; right leg, thigh and fingers lacerated430
1949-04-1713:30QldCairns - Ellis Beachcoastaltigerbathing in water deepRichard Joseph Maguiremale13major lacerations - leg426
1949-01-2315:00NSWNewcastle - Bar BeachcoastalwhiteswimmingRay Landmale20
1948-12-27WALancelin IslandtigerswimmingArthur Strahanmale17eaten whole
1948-12-2611:30QldSunshine Coast - Caloundra - King's Beachcoastal - surf beachtigerTreading water, waiting for a waveEric Keysmale28major lacerations - arm, leg, pelvic region419
1948-02-12NSWNewcastle - Stockton BeachcoastaltigerswimmingRonald Johnsonmale16major lacerations - torso, leg417
1947-11-30QldMoreton BayD. Smith78
1947-11-0816:00NSWPort Macquarie - Wilson RiverriverbullswimmingEdwin Elfordmale12major lacerations - leg413
1946-11-20QldTorres Strait - Thursday Island - 64 km offisland open ocean - reeftigerpearl diving from luggerEsrona Johnson, a Torres Strait Islander manmale30major lacerations - arm409
1946-08-1815:20QldCairns - Ellis Beachcoastaltigerswimming after a tennis ballPhillip South Collinmale30major lacerations - torso407
1946-04-1913:30QldCairns - Trinity BeachcoastaltigerswimmingRobert McAuliffemale17major lacerations - arm, leg406
1946-01-05NSWSydney - Georges River, Oatley BayriverbullswimmingValma Tegelfemale14major lacerations - leg404
1945-06-1516:00QldCairns - Trinity BeachcoastaltigerswimmingE. J. McHughmale402
1943-05-14After 04:00Qldoff Brisbaneawaiting rescue from a hospital ship torpedoed by a Japanese submarine during WWII
1942-12-2610:50NSWSydney Harbour - Bantry BayestuarybullswimmingDenise Burchfemale15major lacerations - leg398
1942-01-0415:00NSWSydney Harbour - Bantry BayestuarybullswimmingZita Steadmanfemale28major lacerations - torso393
1941-10QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open oceantigerswimmingmale390
1940-12-2809:00NSWNewcastle - Stockton BeachcoastaltigerswimmingClarence Hammondmale23injuries to torso388
1940-02-0414:00NSWSydney - Botany Bay - Brighton-Le-Sandsestuary - bay to open oceanbullwadingJohn William Ekemale55injuries to both arms385
1940-01-2310:40NSWSydney - Botany Bay - Brighton-Le-Sandsestuary - bay to open oceantigerswimmingMaxwell Farrinmale13left leg severed384

1930s

DateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
1939-12-1412:15QldMackay - Rubbish Dump Creekriver shark landed 2 hours laterswimmingFrank Gurranmale20major lacerations - leg and foot380
1938-12-27NSWUrungaunknownswimmingDaniel Grahammale19not recovered
1938-07-12NTOff Bathurst IslandHardhat diving from Japanese pearling lugger, Reiyo MaruOkadamale25body not recovered372
1938-06QldTorres Straitisland open ocean - reefdivingmalebody not recovered371
1937-11-11QldOta/Otter Reefunconfirmed - sharkdiving for trochusNelan Krismale17366
1937-10-2717:30QldCoolangatta - Kirra Beachcoastaltiger - A, female contained Girvan's remainsswimmingNorman Girvanmale18remains found in shark363
1937-10-2717:30QldCoolangatta - Kirra BeachcoastaltigerswimmingJack Brinkleymale25364
1937-07-16NTElcho Islandpearl divingJapanese hard hat divermale
1937-05-15NightQldTownsville - Ross Creekestuary2 days later a shark was caught from the siteswimming across the river after being refused permission to cross on the ferryWilliam Tennantmale33major lacerations - leg, hand360
1937-02-1315:20NSWNewcastle - Bar BeachcoastalwhiteswimmingJohn Welshmale32major lacerations - torso, leg358
1936-12-1211:30NSWNewcastle - Throsby CreekestuarybullswimmingGeorge Lundbergmale15leg severed356
1936-12-01VicMordiallocwhitefishingCharles Swannmale46
1936-06-26QldTorres Strait - Nepean Islandisland open oceantiger - swimming to surface after diving for trochusWillie, an Indigenous Australianmale16351
1936-02-0415:00NSWSydney - Manly - S Steynecoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingDavid Patonmale14body not recovered345
1936-01-2218:00SAGulf St Vincent - Adelaide - West Beachcoastal - beach to open oceanwhiteswimmerRay Bennettmale13344
1936VicPort Phillipswimmingmale
1935-08-26NightQldat Flat Top, near Mackaypelagicunknown - fell overboard, hanging onto lifebuoyPatrick Quinnmale38body not recovered, but sharks were caught with human remains thought to be those of Quinn
1935-08-13QldTorres Strait - Warrior Reefspelagicdiving for beche-de-mer from luggerBarani, a Papuanmalemajor lacerations - right buttock and thigh340
1935-03-0912:30NSWMaroubra Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingErnest MacDonaldmale27multiple injuries335
1935-03-0217:30NSWSydney - North Narrabeen Beachcoastal - surf beachwhitestandingHerbert McFarlanemale22thigh bitten338
1935-01QldTorres strait - unknown pearl bedsisland open ocean - reeftigerswimmingmale333
1934-12-3116:30NSWGeorges River MoorebankestuarybullswimmingRichard Sodenmale19left leg bitten330
1934-12-2313:00NSWCentral Coast - Horsefield Bay - Brisbane WatersestuarybullswimmingRoy Inmanmale14331
1934-10-22QldTorres Strait - Warrior Reef Islandsisland open ocean - reeffreediving for trochus shell David Younger, a Torres Strait Islandermaleforearm lacerated; died of gas gangrene 13 days later327
1934-10-09NTCobourg Peninsula - RedcliffcoastalbathingAboriginal womanfemale38328
1934-08-26Qldoff Eva Island from Cardwellcoastalswimming, immediately after entering the seaRobert Steelemalebody not recovered326
1934-04-0112:30NSWSydney - Manly, North Steynecoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingLeon Hermesmale15right leg injures325
1934-03-1215:00NSWSydney - Dee Why Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingFrank Athol Rileymale17leg removed323
1933-11-20QldTorres Strait - near Boydong Caytiger - freediving for trochusBili, a Papuanmalemajor lacerations - right buttock and thigh316
1933-01-0417:30QldTownsville - Strand Beach, Kissing PointcoastalswimmingStanley Victor Locksleymale38285309
1932-05-12QldTorres Strait - near Warrior Reefsisland open oceanpearl divingHenry Solomon, Cape York nativemale305
1931-08-01QldPort Douglasfell overboard?Llewellyn Robertsmale
1931-03-22QldTownsville - Ross Creekestuaryfishing with a cast netArthur Tomidamale19left thigh bitten299
1930-12-31NSWParramatta Riverunknownmale
1930-12-13NSWSydney Harbourestuaryunknownfell overboardFrank Kennymale
1930-07QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open oceantigersnorkellingmale16292
1930-06-04QldTorres Strait - Mabuiag Islandisland open oceanIbigan, a Torres Strait Islandermale291
1930-02-1516:30VicPort Philip - Middle Brighton Piercoastal - baywhiteswimmingNorman Clarkmale18289

1920s

YearDateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
19291929-12-26NSWSydney Harbour - Bald Rock Wharf, White BayestuarybullswimmingWilliam Oakleymale16multiple injuries285
19291929-12-03 QldTownsville - Ross Creekestuarymale50s283
19291929-09-01QldTownsville - Ross Creekestuaryfell from wharf into water & attacked immediatelyEdward William Hobbsmale42both legs injured281
19291929-04-09QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open oceanmale
19291929-04-04QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open oceanswimming between boatsNed Luffman, a Torres Strait Islandermale
19291929-03-12QldTorres Strait - Dauan Islandisland open oceanbathinga Torres Strait Islander schoolboymale275
19291929-02-1815:30NSWSydney - Maroubra Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingAllan Butchermale20multiple injuries269
19291929-02-0816:00NSWSydney - Bondi Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteswimmingJohn Gibsonmale39leg injuries270
19291929-01-2717:30QldTownsville - Magnetic Island - Alma BaycoastalswimmingHarry Weatherallmale18major lacerations - arm, torso265
19291929-01-1218:10NSWSydney - Bondi Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteBody surfingColin Stewartmale14leg injuries267
19281928-04-0418:00NSWNewcastle - Cooks Hill - Bar Beachcoastalwhiteswimming - 1m depthEdward Arthur Lanemale28major lacerations - hand, leg, torso262
19281928-03-28 QldBobmale
19281928-02-20Qldnear Barrow Pointisland open ocean - reefpearl divingWanewa, a Torres Strait Islandermale258
19281928-01-27QldTorres Strait - Deliverance Islandisland open oceanRetrieving meat from a cage in the waterHarry Envoldtmale78257
19271927-05-09 Qldoff CairnscoastalwalkingQuassa, a Torres Strait Islandermale255
19271927-01-0311:30NSWSydney - Port Hacking - Grays PointrivertigerswimmingMervwyn Allummale15leg bitten from thigh to ankle250
19271927NSW up the Cataract Riverriverswimmingmale10shoulder bitten up the Cataract River
19261926-12-02QldPalm Islandisland open ocean - reefdiving for trochusNorman Skeenmale248
19261926-03-1715:45SAGulf St Vincent - Adelaide - Brighton Piercoastal - ocean beachwhiteswimmingPrimrose Whytefemale245
19251925-11-2215:15WAPerth - Cottesloe Beachcoastal - surf beachwhiteFloating on his backSimeon Etteltonmale55thigh & torso bitten244
19251925-03-1215:15NSWNewcastle BeachcoastalwhiteswimmingJack Canningmale16right forearm severed, lacerations from buttocks to heel243
19241924-04-25AfternoonNSWKiama - Blowholecoastal - ocean beachwhitefishing, fell in water and swimming to shoreErnest Conroymale20partial remains recovered240
19241924-01-0916:00NSWSydney - Parramatta River - near Camelliariverbullswimming soon after diving into waterCharles Brownmale16right thigh severely bitten, left arm lacerated237
19231923-12-02NSWBellinger Heads - Urungacoastalwhitefishing in waist-deep waterJames Eltonmaledisappeared while attempting to haul in a catch
19231923-11-23WAPort Headland - Condon Creekcoastal - open oceandry shelling Pinctada albina, as forced labourSelim Opre, a local Aboriginal manmalepartial remains found235
19231923-11-23WAPort Headland - Condon Creekcoastal - open oceandry shelling Pinctada albina, as forced labourDea Opre, a local Aboriginal manmalebody not recovered234
19231923-11-02NSWBellinger Headssuspected shark involvementfishingmalebody not recovered
19231923-06-16NSWWollongong - BellambicoastalwhiteAttempting to swim ashore after rowing skiff was holed by sharkJ. Rigbymaletaken by shark; two other men drowned, only 1 man survived232
19231923-05-22MiddayQldGreat Barrier Reefpelagic - reefdiving?Keizo Masoyomale229
19231923-01-27WASwan River, Freshwater Bay, ClaremontriverswimmingCharles Topsail Robertsonmale13back of thigh bitten226
1920 - 1923QldGreat Barrier Reefthree Japanese diversmales
19221922-12-0509:15QldMaryborough - Hervey Bay - Pialba Beachcoastal - beach to open oceana 2.7 m "blue" sharkbathing in water - depth Alfred Gassmanmale19severe injuries to torso225
19221922-04-26NSWHawkesbury RiverriverunknownswimmingWilliam A Munromale
19221922-03-0211:00NSWSydney - Coogee Beachcoastal - surf beachwhite - bathing in knee-deep waterMervyn Gannonmale21right hand severed; lacerations on left thigh & left hand; died of gas gangrene224
19221922-02-0415:30NSWSydney - Coogee Beachcoastal - surf beachthought to be a whiteswimmingMilton Coughlanmale18both arms & shoulder bitten223
19221922-01-1517:30QldTownsville - Ross CreekestuaryswimmingRobert Milroymale54222
19221922-01-04EveningNSWNewcastle - Stockton BeachsurfingJohn Manning Rowemale26disappeared, then his shark-bitten remains washed ashore
19211921-11-27MorningQldBrisbane River -Bulimba Reach - Gay's Cornerriverfell from his father's back into the waterGeorge Jackmale8body not recovered218
19211921-10-04AfternoonQldGreat Barrier Reefpelagicdiving for beche-de-merYoichi Schamokmale22left thigh bitten
19201920-01-24 QldArlington Reefpelagic - reeffreedivinga Japanese divermale217
19201920-01-1510:00NSWNewcastle - Throsby CreekestuarybullswimmingDavid Millermaleleg bitten207

1910s

YearDateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
19191919-12-0705:30NSWMacleay River - Pelican IslandriverbullswimmingJames Ridleymale47left leg & calf bitten206
19191919-01-0907:30NSWSydney Harbour - Sirius Coveestuaryunknown - wadingRichard Simpsonmale13right thigh bitten203
19191919-01-0510:00QldTownsville - Ross Creekestuarywading while shrimpingJack Hoeymale38thigh bitten204
19181918-111500QldArlington Reef - Green Islandpelagictigersnorkelingmalemajor lacerations - torso201
19181918-09-19QldTownsville - Strand BeachcoastalbathingJoseph Bartlettmale22200
19161916-12QLDYeppoon - Mens Beachcoastaltigerswimmingmale26major lacerations - calf191
19161916-12-0809:00NSWSydney Harbour - Sugarloaf Point - Seven Shillings Beachestuaryunknownreturning to shore after rescuing wife from shark attack, from the shoreWalter C Germanmale41right arm severed, chest punctured
19161916-11WAPort Headland - Condon Creekcoastal - open oceantigersnorkellingmalemajor lacerations - leg189
19161916-11-1006:00QldTownsville - Strand BeachcoastalswimmingWalter Gregsonmale187
19161916-11-09EveningQldTownsville - Kissing Point CampcoastalbathingRobert Alexander Poultneymale27186
19161916-04-25NSWManly Beachcoastal - surf beachswimmingThomas Harringtonmale
19161916-04-03VicCarrumclinging to overturned rowing boatMonte Robinson & Andrew McNeillmales17
19151915-01-01NSWSydney Harbour - Sirius Coveestuaryunknownbathing about from shoreWarren Toozemale17upper leg injury180
19141914-06-10AfternoonVicPort Phillip - Sandringham Beachcoastal - bayswimmingMr Croxfordmale43177
19121912-01-2615:00NSWSydney Harbour - Lane Cove River - Figtreeriverunconfirmed - whaler type shark, possibly a bullswimmingJames Edward Morganmale21161
19121912-01-01MorningQldTownsville - Ross CreekestuarybathingSamuel Tristingmale162
19111911-03QldTorres Strait - Thursday Islandisland open oceantigerswimmingmale16major lacerations - torso, thigh158
19101910-12-23WAGreen Islandescaping a shipwrecked pearling schoonercaptain and all but one crewmales
19101910-01-26NSWNewcastle HarbourestuaryAlfred Victor Clulowmale16153

1900s

YearDateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
19091909-12-15NSW off Sydneyopen oceanunknownfell overboardMr C Wittmale
19091909-06-18QldMiddleton Reef, from Brisbaneawaiting rescue following shipwrecksome of the 17 dead were taken by sharks; others drowned or died of other causes; only legs, still in sea-boots, were recovered
19081908-12-31QldMoreton Bayfell into the waterLieutenant Hextonmale
19081908-09-21QldTorres Strait - Thursday Islandfell from the jettyKong Choong Tingmaleremains recovered from 3 sharks
19071907-12-23NSWSydney Harbour - Sugarloaf BayestuarybullbathingHenry Jonesmale151
19071907-10-18QldTorres Strait - Thursday Islandbathingmale from the lugger Teazermale
19071907-02-03MorningQldTownsville - Ross CreekestuarybathingWilliam Williamsmale18148
19061906-09-05QldTorres Strait - Mabuiag IslandswimmingSmithmale146
19061906-04-14QldLizard Islandisland open oceandiving for beche-de-merCharleymale17145
19061906-01-2814:10NSWSydney - Georges River - The Moons riverbullbathingWilliam Joseph Dobsonmale31 or 33144
19051905-12QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open oceantigersnorkelingmalemajor lacerations - thigh143
19051905-03-25TasBridportbathingCharles Taylormale
pre–1906NSWSydney Harbour - under Pyrmont Bridge, Darling HarbourBull or Grey Nurseswimming in murky water near floating logsan Arab boymalenot recovered
19041904-02-07QldBrisbaneswimming after his hatGeorge Grantmale
19031903-06-21NSWSydney - Georges RiverriverCause of death was actually drowning: the coroner ruled William's death a drowning by asphyxia, dismissing reports of a shark attackBoat capsized in the waterWilliam Pricemale
19031903-03-12QldLogan RiverriverswimmingWilliam Bartlettmale139
19031903-01-10NSWSydney Harbour - Lane Cove RiverestuarybullSydney Jamesmale137
19021902-01-25NSWKerosene Bayunknowndangling feet in the waterJohn Ogiermale
pre–1903WABroome - Roebuck Baycoastal - bay to open oceandivingmale
pre–1903WApearl divingAhmunmale
19011901-01-30QldBrisbane River - Rowing ClubriverbathingJohn Thompsonmalethigh bitten130
19001900-12-27NSWSydney Harbour - Middle Harbour - Folly Pointestuary - baybullbathingThomas Houstanmale21major lacerations - leg128
19001900-11QldTorres Strait - unknown pearl bedsisland open oceansnorkellingmale127

Before 1900

YearDateTimeStateAreaSite categorySpeciesActivityVictimSexAgeInjuryReferenceUIN
18981898-12-28QldThe Narrowsunknownfell overboardJames Watersmale
18981898-07-26 NSWSydneyswimming after their boat capsizedMartin Gunnermale20source labels incident as a 'questionable incident'; it was extract from newspaper advertising testimonial for pills
18961896-11-29WAAlbanycoastal - harbourswimmingDaviesmale
18961896-11-01WAEsperancecoastal - harbourboat swampedLouismale117
18961896-01-11AfternoonNSWSydney Harbour - Johnstons Bay - Pyrmont Bathsestuary - baybullbathingWilliam Readymale11major lacerations - torso116
18951895-12-16NSWJervis Bayestuary - bayunknownfishingEdward Baileymale
18951895-12-09NSWSydney - West Balmain - Iron Cove Bridgeestuary - baybullbathingThomas John Terrillmale14major lacerations - torso115
18951895-11NSWJervis Bay - Governors Headcoastal - bay to open oceana whalerswimmingmalebody not recovered113
18951895-06-03 WABarrow Island - Barrow Passageisland open ocean - open oceanpearl divinga Japanese divermale112
18951895-02-27NSWSydney Harbourestuary - baybullswimmingJames Edward Clifton Donaldmale14major lacerations - leg110
18931893-04-0416:30TasGeorge's Bay - Chimney Pointswimming ashore after boat capsizedJoseph Meredithmale
18931893-01QldClaremont Isles National Parkpelagic - reeftigerswimmingmalebody not recovered106
18921892-03-06QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open oceanDress divingMr A. Rotamanmalebitten in two by shark after provoking it with a knife
18921892-01QldTorres Strait - Badu Islandisland open ocean - reeftigerdivingmalemajor lacerations - torso101
18901890-12-30QldMoreton Bayswimming to shore after boat capsized by a squallC. Gregorydeath may have been due to drowning
18891889-07-08VicPort Phillip - Bay Headspelagic - open oceanfell into the watermale97
18881888-12-31NSWHawkesbury Bridge, Sydneyestuary - bayunknownWorking on the bridge when he fell into the riverMr Rylandmale
18881888-12-0913:00NSWSydney Harbour - Iron Cove Bridgeestuary - baybullswimmingStephen Cartermale11major lacerations - torso96
18871887-12-0411:30NSWSydney Harbour - Ryde, Parramatta RiverriverbullswimmingThomas Cochrane male25major lacerations - torso, leg, pelvic area94
18861886-06-17QldOff Bribie Headsswimming after being washed overboardLacoonmale18
18841884-01-14SASpencer Gulf - Port Piriecoastalwhite - 2 sharksswimming; Fell overboardMiss Warrenfemale16remains not recovered88
18831883-12-1912:00NSWSydney Harbour - Parramatta River - Blackwallestuary - bayunknownswimmingCuthbert Vere Lysaghtmale2186
18831883-02-25NTPearling bedsdivingmale
18831883-01-2105:30NSWSydney Harbour - Iron Coveestuary - bayunknownbathingJohn Eatonmale3785
18821882-12WABroomecoastal - bay to open oceantigersnorkelingmale84
18821882-05-12 WABroome - Ninety Mile Beachcoastal - beach to open oceanpearl divinga Malay divermalemajor lacerations - torso83
18821882-04-15NSWLake Macquarieestuaryunknownfishingmale81
18821882-02-07WApearl divinga native divermalethigh bitten
18821882-01-23 NSWDarling Harbour, SydneyunknownbathingGeorge Sinclairmale
18811881-11NSWSydney Harbour - Rushcutters Bayestuary - baybullswimmingmalebody not recovered78
18801880-11-25AfternoonQldPetrie Bight, Brisbane River - Kangaroo PointriverswimmingAlexey Drurymale12feet bitten74
18801880TasSt George's Baymale
18801880-01QldCairns - Fitzroy Islandisland open oceantigerswimmingmalebody not recovered71
18791879-06NSWSydney Harbour - Darling Harbourestuary - baybullswimmingmalemajor lacerations - leg69
1878NSWSydney - Balmainestuaryunknownbathing in of watermale11leg severed
18771877-12-12NSWnear Sydneyunknownwashed overboard from the barque Mary Eady2 malesmale
18771877-01-28VicPort Phillip - Emerald Hillcoastal - baybathingWilliam Marksmale30flesh on legs torn out; bites to face and torso60
18761876-05-14NSWSydney HarbourestuaryunknownswimmingFrederick Brownmale
18761876-02-0606:00VicPort Phillip - Albert Park piercoastal - baybathingPeter Rooneymale18major lacerations - leg, pelvic region57
18761876-02QldTorres Strait - unknown pearl bedsisland open oceantigersnorkelingmalemajor lacerations - torso56
18751875-10QldTorres Strait - unknown pearl bedsisland open oceantigersnorkelingmalemajor lacerations - leg51
1876NSWSydneyunknownan unnamed boymale
18751875WAShark BaySitting on gunwale of boatAndrew Farmermale
18721872-02-26QldBramble Reefship-wreckedsome were taken by sharks
1871NSWManning Riverriverunknownmale"caught by legs"
18701870-12-31TasDerwent RiverCanoeingSub Lieut Bowyer of HMS Chilemale
18651865-11VicPort Phillip - Williamstowncoastal - baywhiteswimmingmale33major lacerations - thigh39
18641864VicPort Phillip - Corio Bayswimming, attempting to rescue his dog who had fallen from his boatMr Warren Jrmaledisappeared suddenly; shark involvement presumed
18631863-04-30QldSunshine Coast - Caloundra Headscoastal - surf beachunknown - 2 sharkslaunching a boatMr Barnsfieldmale38
18631863-01QldMoreton Bay - Victoria Pointcoastaltigerswimmingmalebody not recovered36
18631863-01-10EveningNSWManning River - "Bellynahinch"riverunknownbathingJames Brownmale1735
18621862-12-19QldBrisbane Riverrivertrying to catch a wounded birdmale34
18581858-03-1415:00VicPort Phillip - Hobsons Baycoastal - baybathingAdolphe Bollandermale2230
18551855-11NSWSydney Harbour - Millers Pointestuary - baybullswimmingmalemajor lacerations - leg27
18551855-11-11VicPort Phillip - Williamstowncoastal - bayswimminga seaman from whaling brig Curlewmale
18551855-07QldTorres Strait - Keriri (Hammond) Islandisland open oceantigerswimmingmalemajor lacerations - torso26
18551855-03-28SAGulf St Vincent - Port WakefieldFell overboardMaster Colemanmale
18531853QldMoreton Bayfell into the waterJames Hexton, pilotmale
18521852-10-09NSWCoalcliffunknownfell overboardJames Rogersmale
18501850-01QldMoreton Baycoastaltiger sharkswimmingmalebody not recovered21
18491849-12-09NSWSydney Harbourestuary - baybullmale
18491849-12-01AfternoonNSWSydney Harbour - Woolloomooloo Bayestuary - bayunknownbathinga Sailor from the steamship Eaglemale
18491849-09-19VicWarrnamboolswimminga sailor from the schooner Brothermale
18491849-01WADunsborough - Castle Rock - Quindaluppelagic - open oceanwhiteswimmingmale18
18451845-12-26NSWNewcastleunknownfishing; fell overboardJohn Williamsmale
18431843-09-14TasBetween Pt Arthur Penal Colony and Forestier Peninsulaswimming to escape imprisonmentOwenmale
18411841-03-2714:00NSWSydney Harbour - Cockatoo Islandestuary - baybullbathingAndrew Gogginmale22major lacerations - thigh15
18401840–12NSWSydney Harbour - Woolloomooloo Bay - off The Domainestuary - baybullswimming; dead whale in the watermale18major lacerations - legs14
18391839-08-07VicWilsons Prom - Sealer's Covecoastalwhiteswimming from capsized whale boatCaptain Wishart of the whaler Wallabymale39major lacerations - legs13
18371837-01-17EveningNSWMacleay Riverriverbullwashing his feetAlfred Australia Howemale12major lacerations on leg; later died due to tetanus12
18361836-08QldK'gari (Fraser Island) to Inskip Pointcoastala whalerswimmingmalebody not recovered11
18361836-08QldK'gari (Fraser Island) to Inskip Pointcoastala whalerswimmingmaleother: body not recovered10
18311831-01-22TasHobartclinging to line after boat capsizedRobert Dudlowmale
1829TasPittwater - Sweet Water Pointestuary - bay to open ocean"Amphibious Jack"malemajor lacerations - leg4
179103:00NSWSydney Harbourestuaryunknownan Aboriginal womanfemalemajor lacerations - torso; "bitten in two"1