How to choose a lifejacket

Adult and child wearing properly fitted lifejackets while seated on a small recreational boat in sheltered coastal water

A lifejacket only helps if it suits the water you will be on, fits properly and is in good condition. This guide explains the main types sold in Australia and what to check before you rely on one. Rules about when you must wear or carry a lifejacket differ by state and vessel, so always confirm the current requirements with your state or territory marine authority.

1. Understand the levels

Lifejackets are commonly described by a level, such as Level 50, 100, 150 or 275. According to Transport WA:

  • Levels 100, 150 and 275 are approved for use in unprotected waters. They provide head and neck support, are designed to keep a person face-up in the water and are high-visibility. They are made to Australian (AS 4758) or international (ISO 12402) standards.
  • Level 50 is not approved for general use in unprotected waters, with limited exceptions (Transport WA lists personal water craft within 400 metres of shore, paddle craft, sailboards and kitesurfers). It has no head and neck support and is not designed to keep a person face-up. It is normally used for activities such as sailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and personal water craft.
  • Level 50S has similar buoyancy to Level 50 but is not high-visibility. It is often chosen by waterskiers, wakeboarders, kayakers and canoeists, and is available as a built-in garment.

2. Match the lifejacket to the activity

Think about where you will be, and how far from help. Paddling on a sheltered river is a different situation from a boat trip offshore. Rules are different for registered boats, personal water craft and paddle craft, and they depend on the water. For example, Transport WA sets out different carry-and-wear requirements for vessels under and over 4.8 metres, and for protected versus unprotected waters. Check your own state's current rules rather than relying on a general guide.

Transport WA also recommends wearing a lifejacket at all times while on board, and particularly in bad weather, at night or in low visibility, in unfamiliar waters, when boating alone, or if you are a poor swimmer.

3. Fit and comfort

  • Try it on, and choose the correct size and weight range for the person who will wear it.
  • It should be snug and comfortable, and you should be able to put it on quickly.
  • For children aged 1 to 12, check that the weight range suits the child, the fit is snug and the child is comfortable. Transport WA recommends not taking babies on the water, because suitable lifejackets are hard to fit.

4. Check the condition

  • Check lifejackets at least annually, or as the manufacturer recommends. Look for cuts or tears, and check straps and buckles for fraying.
  • Rinse with fresh water if wet, and dry before storing.
  • Inflatable lifejackets need extra care: check for wear, test that the bladder holds pressure, and check the gas cylinder against the maker's instructions. Do not repair a lifejacket yourself.
  • Check for recall notices for your brand and model.

This guide is general information, not legal or safety advice. Requirements and approvals change, so check current advice from your state or territory marine authority.

Sources and further reading