State Government announce 1000 more shark shield rebates

Monday, 16 September 2019 11:17

By Monique Welhan

The State Government has added an extra 1000 rebates for shark deterrents after a significant increase in sales in the last month.

The scheme gives ocean users a $200 rebate when they purchase one of the two scientifically proven personal shark deterrents - Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+ Surf (Bundle) and the Ocean Guardian FREEDOM7 - available through the program from a registered retailer.

With the $200 Government rebate, the surf bundle can be purchased for $299 and the dive device can be purchased for $399.

Fisheries and Science Minister Dave Kelly said both devices have undergone independent scientific testing and are proven to significantly reduce the chance of an interaction with a great white shark.

"Offering personal protection, that is scientifically proven, to our most vulnerable ocean users - surfers and divers - is just good Sea Sense," Mr Kelly said.

"Last week's incident involving a spear fisher who luckily avoided injury, goes to show how important offering personal protection is, a personal deterrent in such circumstances can help keep you safe."

Rebates claimed increased in the last month by more than 120 per cent on the previous month.

About 3,800 Western Australians have now purchased a personal shark deterrent through the program.

More than 600 of those have been claimed by surfers and more than 3,190 have been claimed by divers and other ocean users.