Leading UAV Innovation Across Safety, Research and Industry
The Australian Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Service (AUAVS), through Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) delivers the largest coastal UAV surveillance program in the Southern Hemisphere, setting the benchmark for innovation, safety, and operational excellence.
With a highly visible presence across coastal councils in NSW, our UAV operations provide critical, real-time aerial surveillance that enhances situational awareness and supports faster, safer decision-making. From detecting sharks and rip currents to assisting with emergency response, our drones play a vital role in protecting lives both along the coastline and inland during major incidents.
A New Era of Coastal Surveillance
From 1 July 2026, the NSW Government’s significant investment will deliver the largest expansion of aerial shark surveillance in the world.
This program uplift will include:
- Year-round drone coverage across all Sydney beaches (Palm Beach to Cronulla)
- Expanded coverage to additional high-use coastal locations
- Longer daily operations from dawn until dusk
- Surveillance extending beyond patrolled beaches to popular unpatrolled areas
- Continued integration of AI and advanced monitoring technologies
This investment strengthens our ability to detect hazards earlier, respond faster, and provide timely warnings to the public.
Working seamlessly alongside lifesaving volunteers, professional lifeguards, and emergency services, including Police, Fire and Rescue, and Ambulance, our UAV capability strengthens the entire emergency response network.
This investment strengthens our ability to detect hazards earlier, respond faster, and provide timely warnings to the public. Working seamlessly alongside lifesaving volunteers, professional lifeguards, and emergency services, including Police, Fire and Rescue, and Ambulance, our UAV capability strengthens the entire emergency response network.
