NEW measures have been announced to combat anti-social, often dangerous, behaviour by jet-ski "hoons" on the Georges River and in Botany Bay and Port Hacking.
Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Duncan Gay said high visibility and covert patrols by water police would be increased, speed restricted zones extended and more jet-ski-exclusion zones would be considered.
Mr Gay said stronger laws would be introduced in 2016 to enable immediate suspension of boat licences and the seizure of jet skis for reckless, dangerous and negligent behaviour.
New jet-ski exclusion zones would also be considered in parts of the Georges River (around Revesby), Port Hacking (Bonnie Vale) and Botany Bay over the next six months, in consultation with the local communities, water users and police.
Mr Gay said reckless jet-skiers posed a huge safety risk.
Police marine area commander Detective Superintendent Mark Hutchings said police were targeting "a rogue element".
Mr Hutchings said a man was recently charged after an incident on the Georges River at Picnic Point, where a kayaker was allegedly knocked into the water, suffering serious injuries.
Director of Maritime at Roads and Maritime Services Angus Mitchell said, from January 1, the eight-knot speed limit zone on the Georges River would be extended by two kilometres.
Mr Mitchell said consideration was being given to using GPS and drone technology to help deter illegal behaviour and catch offenders.
The number of CCTV cameras could also be increased.
A new complaints hotline, 13 12 36, has been established to make it easier for the public to report any jet-skier problems.
