Do shark culls keep people safe in the ocean? Here's what the science says

The debate over shark culls as a public safety measure has resurfaced with the recent attack at Coogee Beach, a tragedy that underscores the fragile balance between human safety and marine ecosystems. While culls are often framed as a straightforward solution to reduce shark-human encounters, the science paints a far more complex picture. Studies show that shark attacks are statistically rare, with the risk of being bitten lower than that of drowning or even being struck by lightning. Yet when such incidents occur, they trigger emotional and political responses, prompting calls for immediate action—often with limited regard for ecological consequences. This isn’t the first time Australia has grappled with lethal shark management. In Western Australia, a controversial cull in 2014 targeted great white sharks, leading to widespread condemnation from marine biologists who argued it disrupted ecosystems without proven effectiveness. Research suggests that shark behavior is influenced by factors like water temperature, prey availability, and human activity, making it difficult to isolate culls as a reliable deterrent. Alternatives like shark exclusion nets, drones, and real-time monitoring have gained traction, but their adoption remains inconsistent due to cost and logistical challenges. What happens next in this debate will likely hinge on public pressure and political will. If further attacks occur, calls for culls may intensify, despite evidence that they often fail to reduce incidents long-term. Conversely, growing awareness of shark conservation—coupled with advancements in non-lethal technology—could shift the conversation toward more sustainable solutions. The tension here reflects a broader global challenge: how societies reconcile safety concerns with biodiversity preservation. With climate change altering ocean dynamics and increasing human encroachment into marine habitats, the stakes are only rising. The question isn’t just whether culls work, but whether we’re willing to accept their trade-offs—or whether we can innovate before the next tragedy forces a reckoning.