What you need depends on the type of vessel, who is on board and how far you will go. This guide uses Western Australian requirements as an example of how the thinking works. Other states have their own rules, so always check yours before each trip.
1. Start with the vessel and the water
Transport WA's requirements vary with the kind of vessel (a registered boat, a personal water craft, or a non-registrable craft such as a paddle craft, sailboard or tender) and with where you are going. "Protected waters" include rivers, lakes, dams, estuaries, harbours and waters within 400 metres of shore. Beyond that, you are in unprotected waters and more equipment is required. Transport WA's definition of protected waters excludes Cambridge Gulf and Lake Argyle, so not every lake or gulf counts as protected water.
2. Lifejackets for everyone
Lifejackets are the starting point on any vessel. The right level and whether they must be worn or only carried depend on the vessel and the water. We explain the types in How to choose a lifejacket.
3. Extra equipment when you go further out
In WA unprotected waters (beyond 400 metres from shore), applicable vessels generally need:
- An EPIRB or a worn PLB. Non-GPS EPIRBs must be upgraded to GPS-enabled models by 1 September 2028. All PLBs now on the market are already GPS-enabled.
- Flares or an electronic visual distress signal (EVDS). Parachute flares could only replace the red handheld flare until 1 September 2026, so they no longer count towards the mandatory flare requirement. An approved EVDS can replace the required flares only if a GPS-enabled EPIRB is carried or a GPS-enabled PLB is worn.
- A VHF or HF marine radio when operating beyond 4 nautical miles from shore. 27 MHz marine radios are being phased out and will stop being compliant on 1 September 2028.
Operating a VHF or HF radio requires a Marine Radio Operator's Certificate of Proficiency. Check the current Transport WA page before you buy or replace any equipment, because dates and approved products can change.
4. Recommended items
Transport WA also lists items that are recommended rather than required, and says to assess your vessel and conditions when deciding what to carry. These include a fire extinguisher, an anchor and line, and a bilge pump or bailer.
5. Your own checklist
Beyond the formal requirements, most skippers also think about:
- Sun protection and drinking water for everyone on board
- A way to keep phones and keys dry
- Checking the weather and telling someone where you are going and when you expect to return
This guide is general information, not legal or safety advice. Requirements differ by state and vessel type and change over time. Check the current requirements for your vessel with your state or territory marine authority.
Sources and further reading
- Transport WA: Safety equipment changes now apply (page updated July 2026)
- Transport WA: Lifejackets