'Go for the gills': Expert's guide on how to survive a shark attack

A Queensland researcher has released a new book outlining the facts and fiction when it comes to shark attacks.

Blake Chapman told 9NEWS the most obvious advice may be the best.

"It might sound funny, but remaining calm is the biggest piece advice I can give," Ms Chapman said.

However, if that doesn't work, the researcher said she has spoken to people who have successfully deterred sharks by punching the sharks nose, gauging their eyes or going for their gills.

"One of the recommendations is to go for the gills on the basis that they're very sensitive," Ms Chapman said.

Ms Chapman has collected information from shark attack survivors, as well as paramedics, surgeons and nurses who have attended to shark attack victims.

She also hopes her new book will help people better understand the creatures, adding shark nets, which are common along Gold Coast beaches, are her least favourite form of mitigation.

"About 40 per cent of sharks are actually caught on the beach side of the nets, so they have potentially already been in where people have been swimming."