The McGowan Government has delivered on its election commitment to subsidise the cost of personal shark deterrent devices.
From Friday, the first 1000 shark deterrent devices sold would receive a $200 rebate.
To be eligible for the rebate, devices must be approved by the Department of Fisheries.
The only approved device at the start of the program was the Shark Shield FREEDOM7, which uses an electrical pulse to create spasms in the receptors sharks use to locate food.
“This is a significant step forward for governments in recognising that those most at risk, surfers and divers, need individual deterrent protection and I commend Premier Mark McGowan for delivering on his policy promise,” Shark Shield chief executive Lindsay Lyon said.
“Ensuring proven electrical deterrent devices such as Shark Shield are more readily available to those most at risk will greatly improve ocean sport safety and save lives.”
This week will mark the first anniversary of the death of Falcon surfer Ben Gerring, who was attacked by a shark at Gearies.
Earlier in May, the state government announced it would build a shark barrier at Falcon Bay.
For more information about the shark deterrent rebate program go to sharksmart.com.au/staying-safe/rebate.
Department of Fisheries registered retailers
- Dive Locker, Mandurah
- Getaway Outdoors, Mandurah
- Tackleworld, Mandurah
The Shark Shield FREEDOM7 was retailing for between $639-$749, less the $200 rebate.
Nathan Hondros
Senior Journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, and Fairfax Media.
Senior Journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, and Fairfax Media.
