As more older Australians take to the water, the number drowning in waterways, pools and beaches has hit a record high.
Royal Life Saving Australia research shows 115 people aged over 65 drowned across the nation in 2024/25, reflecting a greater participation in water-based activities by many later in life.
Among those, 54 per cent were aged between 65 and 74, while 57 per cent had a pre-existing medical condition, mostly commonly heart disease.
Older Australians account for a quarter of all drowning deaths, despite representing 16 per cent of the national population.
The surge in drownings came with more people swimming into later life, especially in open water, Royal Life Saving Australia chief executive Justin Scarr said.
"So people are swimming their way through life thinking everything is going fine," Dr Scarr told AAP.
"But later in life there's a range of other medical conditions that can impede the person's ability to swim their way to safety if they get into trouble."
In the 75-84 age cohort, there was a lift in unintentional falls, while those aged over 85 were more likely to drown at home, with unintentional falls the leading contributor.
Dr Scarr said aquatic activity provided seniors with "enormous physical and social benefits" but urged them to be aware of their personal limits, changing capabilities and medical conditions while in the water.
There have been 79 drowning deaths across Australia since December 1, according to preliminary figures shown in Royal Life Saving Australia's publicly-available national summer drowning toll.
The figure is below the 101 drowning deaths recorded on the same date in 2024, and less than the five-year average to the same date of 92.
Authorities have urged the public to make water safety a priority by preparing before they leave home and remaining vigilant around the water.
