NSW Lifejacket safety partnership

by Emma Logan on 3 Aug 2012 NSW Minister for Ports Duncan Gay today launched a process to partner with industry to develop a breakthrough initiative in the supply and promotion of lifejackets.

'I’m pleased to today announce the call for Registrations of Interest (ROI) to gauge the level of industry interest in partnering with government to deliver a scheme to support the supply and wearing of lifejackets,' said Mr Gay. 'A new communication and education strategy is currently being developed to promote lifejacket wear and a new on-water compliance program will be delivered for the coming boating season that will encourage lifejacket wear.

'Industry has also made advances in design and technology which means the public now has access to less bulky, more comfortable and far more convenient lifejackets than ever before.

'To support these actions, the State Government is willing to invest and partner with industry to deliver a lifejacket supply and promotion solution. It’s time to explore a breakthrough in lifejacket supply and use.'

Mr Gay said that stakeholders had already suggested some ideas such as a ‘swap and go’ system for replacing inflatable lifejackets based on the way people can conveniently swap BBQ gas bottles at service stations and other outlets.

'That’s just one idea, we want the ROI to engage industry and bring in more ideas.

'Once the preferred scheme has been identified, an Expressions of Interest (EOI) process will be held before the end of the year, with a view to starting a select tender process early in 2013.'

The ROI will be uploaded on the State Government’s e-tendering website today.