Can You Tow a Skier or Tube with a Jet Ski in Australia? Legal Limits Explained

Towing a skier or inflatable behind a jet ski (also known as a Personal Watercraft or PWC) is a fun and exciting way to enjoy Australia’s waterways. But before you grab the tow rope and hit the throttle, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and safety rules that apply in your state or territory.

Yes, you can tow with a jet ski in Australia—but there are specific laws and safety setups you must follow to stay compliant and avoid fines (or worse, accidents).

This article explains what you need to know before towing a skier or tube behind your PWC.

Is Towing with a Jet Ski Legal in Australia?

Yes—towing a skier or inflatable with a jet ski is legal in Australia, but it is regulated. Each state and territory has slightly different rules, but they all share key requirements around:

• Licensing
• Passenger roles (observer)
• Equipment standards
• Minimum age restrictions
• Tow ropes and distance rules

Let’s break these down.

General Towing Rules for Jet Skis Across Australia

✅ 1. You Must Have a PWC Licence

In all states where PWC use is regulated (NSW, VIC, QLD, TAS, WA, SA), the driver must hold a valid PWC licence, which is separate from a general marine licence.

This ensures the operator understands the power and handling of a jet ski, especially at high towing speeds.

✅ 2. You Must Have an Observer Onboard

This is a national requirement. When towing a person (either on skis, a wakeboard, or an inflatable), the jet ski must carry:

• The driver
• An observer who is 12 years or older (age varies by state)
• The person being towed

The observer must face backward at all times to monitor the person being towed and signal the driver if they fall off or are in distress.

Note: Two-seat jet skis cannot be used for towing, as you must have a three seater Jet-Ski, to be able to carry 3 people onboard , when required.

✅ 3. Equipment Must Meet Safety Standards

Your jet ski must have:

• A properly attached and visible towing rope
• Rearview mirrors (optional in some states, but strongly recommended)
• Sufficient seating for all onboard (driver + observer + no tow passenger)

The towed person must wear a Level 50 or 50S lifejacket or higher, rated for PWC use.

State-Specific Towing Rules and Limits

New South Wales (NSW)

• Towing is allowed only in daylight hours
• Driver must hold a PWC Licence
• Must carry observer aged 12+
• Towed persons must wear approved lifejackets
• No towing in restricted zones, including swimming areas and within 30m of people, boats, or the shore

Victoria (VIC)

• PWC endorsement required on marine licence
• Observer must be 12 years or older
• Orange ski flag must be raised when towing
• Speed limits apply within 50m of other vessels or people in the water

Key Safety Tips When Towing with a Jet Ski

• Check local speed limits—many areas restrict speed to 6 knots within 50m of other people, boats, or structures
• Avoid towing near docks, ramps, or swimming areas
• Use a spotter hand signal system (e.g. thumbs-up, stop, slow)
• Carry a mobile phone in waterproof casing
• Check your jet ski capacity plate to ensure it’s legal to carry three people

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with towing regulations can lead to:

• On-the-spot fines (typically $250–$500+)
• Demerit points on your marine licence
• Towing bans or PWC seizure in serious cases
• Liability if someone is injured due to poor towing setup

Conclusion: Know the Rules Before You Tow

Towing with a jet ski is legal in Australia—but only if you have the right licence, the proper safety setup, and follow the rules in your state. With a licensed driver, an alert observer, the right gear, and awareness of your local regulations, towing a skier or inflatable can be safe, fun, and totally compliant.

Before heading out, take a moment to double-check your vessel’s seating capacity, your local laws, and your safety equipment. When it comes to towing, preparation isn’t optional—it’s the law.