The Reality of Shark Culling in Australia
Despite the name, shark nets and catch-and-kill drumlines don’t keep swimmers safe — they’re part of a state-funded program designed to catch and kill marine animals.
It’s time to look at what these programs really do, and who they impact.
Species Targeted by Shark Control Programs
These seven species are the listed 'target species' of the Queensland Shark Control Program as at 2023, however it should be noted that the program catches and kills many non-target species such as whales, dolphins, turtles, rays and many harmless shark species.
ILLUSTRATIONS BY SHARKTOPIA
Our Position on Shark Culling
Our stance is clear. This is how we move forward.
WHY WE EXIST
Shark nets and drumlines don’t create a barrier — they’re designed to catch and kill. These lethal methods harm far more than sharks, including endangered species like turtles, dolphins, and rays. The Nets Out Now Coalition exists to end these outdated practices and push for solutions that protect both people and marine life.
WHAT NEEDS TO CHANGE
Modern tools like drones, shark barriers, personal deterrents, and public education offer real safety — without harming ocean wildlife. We’re calling for state governments to invest in these humane, science-backed alternatives and leave lethal culling behind.
WHERE WE'RE HEADED
With the right action, Australia can lead the world in safer, more ethical shark management. The science is clear — it's time to move forward. We believe in an approach grounded in innovation, compassion, and responsibility to both people and the planet.
Our Ambassadors
Trusted voices from science, diving, conservation, and culture.
Take Action
Together with shark nets and baited 'catch-and-kill' drumlines, over 100,000 sharks other marine animals have been killed. These tactics and methods are cruel, outdated, and have been proved time and again not to protect swimmers and surfers.
These archaic and ineffective methods pose a huge risk — not only to endangered shark populations — but also to whales, dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and many other wildlife species. Even the swimmers and surfers these programs are designed to protect are put at risk by them, by allowing these beachgoers a false sense of security.
Our petition demands decision-makers at all levels stop killing sharks and other marine life, and to modernise shark bite mitigation in Australia.
