The South East Queensland Bull Shark Program is a long-term research initiative led by the University of the Sunshine Coast in collaboration with key local stakeholders, focused on understanding the movement, ecology, and population dynamics of bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) across riverine and coastal systems in southern Queensland.
By combining movement data with genetic analyses, the program aims to provide comprehensive evidence of how bull sharks use these environments over time. This includes identifying key habitats, understanding movement patterns, and assessing population structure within and between rivers and the marine parks and major embayments across the region.
Bull sharks in Australia
Bull sharks occur along most of Australia’s coastline and are one of the few sharks able to move between marine and freshwater habitats. Rivers and estuaries serve as critical nursery areas where juveniles spend several years, resulting in significant overlap with human activity and increased potential for shark–human interactions.
Females bull sharks are natally philopratric, meaning every two years, they return to the same rivers in which they were born to give birth. This behaviour means local pressures such as shark control and commercial fishing can have disproportionate impacts on population structure and genetic diversity. As apex predators, juvenile bull sharks often sit at the top of river food webs and play an important role in ecosystem function. Despite relatively well-managed Australian populations, the species is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, highlighting ongoing population declines globally, despite Australian stocks considered being relatively well-managed.
Why bull shark science matters
Bull sharks regularly use rivers and coastal waters heavily used by people, making them a priority species for management in Queensland. However, major gaps remain in our understanding of population size, habitat use and movement between riverine and marine systems. Filling these gaps is essential for evaluating shark control programs and ensuring effective, evidence-based management that supports both public safety and ecosystem health.
Our research
Our research provides critical insights to support shark management, conservation, and public safety.
Our people
Meet the South East Queensland bull shark program research team
In the news
Research revealing the secret lives of bull sharks on the Sunshine Coast
With Spring in full swing, it’s not just swimmers, surfers and fishermen making the most of the warm weather – bull sharks are also active and on the move, according to University of the Sunshine Coast researchers.
Bull sharks are spending longer in Sydney Harbour and other summer grounds. Here’s how you can stay safe
In the wake of an unprecedented surge in shark encounters, researchers analyse the conditions behind the incident and offer insight into these creatures' habits.
Project partners
