The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien is urging locals to take extra care around water this summer.
The 2025 National Drowning Report reveals 52 people drowned in Victoria between 30 June 2024 and 1 July 2025, an 8 per cent increase on the 10-year average.
Mr O’Brien said the figures are a sobering reminder that drowning risks affect all communities, including Gippsland.
“Gippslanders recorded 1.29 drownings per 100,000 residents, highlighting that our region is not immune,” Mr O’Brien said.
“This data refers to where people live, not necessarily where the incidents occurred and highlights that local families must stay vigilant around water both at home and away.”
The report also shows a significant over-representation of older Victorians, with 17 per cent of drowning victims aged 75 and over, despite this age group making up just 7.5 per cent of the population.
Mr O’Brien said it was also very concerning to read that 15 per cent of drownings were linked to drugs or alcohol.
“Just like drugs and alcohol affect your driving, they can also affect your ability to navigate the water.
“Every one of these deaths is a tragedy, but with some simple precautions, we can prevent more families from experiencing this heartbreak.”
Mr O’Brien encouraged locals to avoid swimming alone, wear lifejackets when boating, supervise children closely and avoid alcohol around water.