Powered vessel free zones trial – supporting safer waterways for the enjoyment of everyone

Whether you’re swimming, paddling or boating, your feedback will help shape future waterway safety decisions. From 24 December 2025 to 26 January 2026, Transport is running a 4 week trial of powered vessel free zones at 3 popular Port Stephens locations:

  • Dutchmans Beach zone - a 185-metre-long area on the eastern side of the beach
  • Nelson Bay Beach (Fly Point) zone - a 230-metre-long area from Fly Point in a southwest direction to a pumping station located midway along Nelson Bay beach
  • Shoal Bay zone - a 430-metre-long area westward from the jetty to the pedestrian crossing

In all locations, powered vessels will be restricted to a distance of more than 30 metres from the shoreline. See maps for further details.

During this period, powered vessels – including PWCs/jet skis and motorised vessels – will not be permitted to operate within sections of these 3 designated high-use swimming areas.

The trial responds to long-standing community feedback and aims to improve safety and enjoyment during the busiest time of year. This trial will help us:

  • reduce the risk of user conflict
  • improve the safety and enjoyment of swimmers and paddlers
  • test whether localised safety zones work in practice
  • gather meaningful feedback to support future decision-making

This is a temporary safety initiative, not a permanent change at these beaches.

Tell us what you think

If you are a swimmer, jet ski driver, boater, or if you just live around the beaches where the trial is in operation, we want to hear about your experience. Consultation closes at 11:59pm on Friday 30 January 2026.