Govt app to help reduce shark attacks

A new shark safety app will help NSW beach-goers know when it's safe to go back in the water.

The SharkSmart app, launched on Saturday by the NSW government, provides basic information on sharks and how to identify and avoid them.

Tips include keeping out of the water during twilight or darkness and avoiding areas popular with diving seabirds.

Meanwhile, a map page helps direct users to beaches protected by shark nets.

"There are no 100 per cent guarantees when entering the ocean," said Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson.

"But the NSW government will continue doing all it can to reduce the risk for swimmers."

The launch comes after repeated shark sightings along the NSW coast in recent weeks.

Fears about a five-metre great white, dubbed Bruce, kept Newcastle beaches closed for a record nine straight days.