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Shark Deterrent Rebate

Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Who is eligible to claim the rebate?

The Shark Deterrent Rebate is available to Western Australian residents. Proof of WA residence must be sighted and recorded by the retailer at the time of purchase. If eligible, the $200 rebate will be deducted from the sale price by the retailer. There is a limit of one rebate per person per device. That is, if a person has previously received the $200 rebate for the Ocean Guardian FREEDOM 7TM or Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+ SurfTM (Bundle) they will also be eligible to receive the $200 rebate for Complete RPELA Kit or RPELA Device Only. 

2. What evidence should I provide as proof of WA residence?

Proof of WA residence may include a current:

  1. Western Australian driver’s licence or learner’s permit.
  2. Western Australian recreational fishing licence.
  3. Medicare card in combination with a utility bill e.g. telephone, gas, electricity, water (not more than 3 months old).
  4. Persons under the age of 18 may also use:
    1. Student ID card.
    2. A combination of their parent/guardian driver’s licence and Medicare card (which includes reference to their name).

3. How do I claim the rebate?

Visit RPELA to purchase a scientifically proven and approved shark deterrent device. If eligible, the $200 rebate will be deducted from the sale price by the retailer. Refer to our Terms and Conditions to review your eligibility. 

4. Can an individual under the age of 18 apply for the rebate?

 Yes. Refer to our Terms and Conditions to review your eligibility. 

5. What is an approved personal shark deterrent device?

An approved personal shark deterrent device is one which has been independently scientifically tested and proven to be effective at reducing the likelihood of an interaction with a white shark. Personal shark deterrent devices that meet these criteria can be approved by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Rebates are available for the Complete RPELA Kit or RPELA Device Only. Additional devices may be added to the scheme once independently scientifically tested, verified and approved by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

No product offers 100% guarantee of protection. Water users are encouraged to follow our SharkSmart tips when heading to the beach. This includes checking all available information published on the SharkSmart WA app, Shark Activity Map or @SLSWA on X (formerly Twitter) before entering the water.

6. Why is the rebate only available for one approved product? 

There is currently one device available that has been independently tested and scientifically proven to significantly reduce the risk of a white shark interaction.

While no product offers 100% guarantee of protection from any species of shark, RPELA is currently considered to be the most effective personal shark deterrent device available for surfers. 

The Ocean Guardian FREEDOM 7TM and Ocean Guardian FREEDOM+ SurfTM had previously been available through the Shark Deterrent Rebate, however the products are no longer available for purchase. 

It is recommended that those interested in purchasing an approved device review the specifications carefully, to ensure it is suitable for their desired use. 

7. What research has been conducted on RPELA? 

The infrastructure and environmental services company, Cardno Australia (now Stantec), independently tested RPELA at Salisbury Island, Western Australia. The report can be viewed at the Journal of Marine Science and Technology

8. Will other personal shark deterrent products be considered for the rebate in the future?

Yes. Companies who have had their products independently tested and scientifically verified are encouraged to contact the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development for consideration of their device. 

 

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