SOutH Australia
ALgal Bloom Report
“I know there must be lots of divers outside of South Australia aware of what's happening and perhaps mourning privately.”
Divers on the frontlines
of climate change
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In early 2025, South Australia began experiencing one of the most severe algal bloom events on record. Warmer waters and nutrient imbalances triggered a bloom that has devastated marine life, disrupted dive tourism, and deeply impacted the wellbeing of local communities.
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Divers for Climate launched its first rapid response, working alongside dive centres, researchers, and communities to document what happened, amplify local voices, and advocate for solutions.
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Our report, Below the Surface, captures the ecological, economic, and social impacts of the algal bloom on South Australia’s dive community. It documents frontline stories, highlights lessons learned, and offers clear recommendations for government, industry, and communities. The report builds on our Algal Bloom Senate Inquiry Submission which includes 14 recommendations co-developed with dive operators across the region.
Below the Surface:
Case Study Report
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Special Thanks To
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BEYOND SOUTH AUSTRALIA
This bloom is part of a wider pattern of climate-driven ocean change, from coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef to disappearing kelp forests in the south. Divers are among the first to see these impacts and among the most trusted voices to communicate them.
As Australia looks toward hosting COP31 in Adelaide, the voices of frontline communities like South Australia’s divers must shape national and global climate policy. Here are 4 things you can do right now to support South Australia.
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Keep diving in South Australia and support local operators
Share your personal dive story on socials using #ImADiverForClimate
Write to your MP and call for stronger ocean-climate action
Sign our National Statement and send a united diver voice to decision makers
