Your Safety and Enjoyment Are Our Priority

    • Queensland has strict scuba diving safety regulations
    • Medical clearance may be required before diving
    • Complete the diving questionnaire before booking
    • Some medical conditions require a doctor’s approval
    • Australian Standard dive medical forms may apply
    • Flying restrictions apply after diving
    • Our team is here to assist you

Scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef is an incredible experience, and your safety is always our highest priority. Queensland operates under some of the strictest scuba diving regulations in the world, ensuring a strong safety record and professional standards across all dive operations.

If you are planning on going scuba diving in Cairns, we recommend reviewing all diving requirements carefully before booking your experience.

Before participating in scuba diving activities in Cairns,  including introductory dives and certified diving, guests must review medical requirements and complete a scuba diving questionnaire.

Why Is a Scuba Diving Questionnaire Required?

Scuba diving places unique demands on the body due to changes in pressure and breathing compressed air underwater. Certain medical conditions, medications, or recent illnesses may require medical clearance before diving.

Queensland dive operators comply with the Queensland Government Code of Practice and Australian diving medical standards. These regulations are designed to protect you and ensure diving remains safe and enjoyable.

Completing your questionnaire in advance helps avoid disappointment on the day of travel.

Who May Require Medical Clearance?

You may need approval from a doctor if you:

    • Have asthma or respiratory conditions
    • Have heart conditions or high blood pressure
    • Are taking certain prescription medications
    • Have experienced recent surgery
    • Are over a certain age (medical guidelines may apply)
    • Have a history of fainting, seizures or lung conditions

If you answer “Yes” to any relevant medical questions, you may be required to complete a formal dive medical assessment.

Guests enrolling in SSI dive courses in Cairns should complete the questionnaire before beginning training to ensure they meet medical guidelines.

The same medical requirements apply to those undertaking PADI dive courses in Cairns, as Australian safety regulations apply across all training programs.

If you are unsure which certification pathway suits you best, you can compare dive courses in Cairns before making your decision.

Australian Standard Dive Medical Form

If medical clearance is required, you may need to consult your doctor using the Australian Standard form:

AS 4005.1 – Recreational Scuba Diving Medical Assessment

This ensures your fitness to dive meets Australian regulatory standards.

It is recommended that you organise medical clearance well in advance of your travel date.

Complete Your Scuba Diving Questionnaire

To streamline your experience and avoid delays, please complete the scuba diving questionnaire prior to booking or travel.

 hga_dive_questionaire

If you are unsure about any medical condition or answer, we encourage you to contact our team for clarification.

Flying After Scuba Diving

Pressure changes after diving can increase the risk of decompression illness if you fly too soon.

Current recommendations:

    • After a single no-decompression dive: wait at least 18 hours before flying
    • After multiple dives: wait at least 24 hours
    • Skydiving or hot air ballooning: wait 24 hours after your last dive

Whenever possible, we recommend allowing a full 24 hours before flying or ascending to altitude.

We also recommend reviewing our reef safety tips to ensure you are fully prepared for your time on the Great Barrier Reef.

Our Commitment to Safe Diving in Cairns

Cairns is internationally recognised for its professional dive training and safety standards. All licensed operators follow strict procedures for:

    • Instructor supervision
    • Equipment checks
    • Dive briefings
    • Emergency protocols
    • Environmental protection

Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are central to every dive experience.

Need Assistance?

If you have questions regarding dive medical requirements or the scuba diving questionnaire, our team is here to help.

Phone: 07 4051 5777
Email: [email protected]

We encourage all guests to clarify medical questions before arrival to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

FAQs – Scuba Diving Medical Requirements

Do I always need a medical certificate to dive?
Not always. Only guests who answer “Yes” to specific medical questions may require formal clearance.

Can I dive if I have asthma?
Some asthma conditions require medical approval. It is best to consult your doctor using the AS 4005.1 form.

Why must I wait before flying?
Flying too soon after diving may increase the risk of decompression sickness due to pressure changes.

What happens if I do not complete the questionnaire?
You may be unable to participate in scuba diving activities until medical clearance is confirmed.

Are Queensland dive regulations strict?
Yes. Queensland operates under strict diving codes of practice, contributing to strong safety standards.

Dive with Confidence in Cairns

Completing your scuba diving questionnaire and reviewing medical requirements ensures a safe and enjoyable experience on the Great Barrier Reef. Queensland’s strict safety standards are in place to protect every guest, whether you are trying scuba diving for the first time or completing an advanced certification.

If you have any uncertainty about your medical eligibility, we encourage you to seek guidance early and contact our team for assistance. Preparing in advance allows you to focus on what truly matters, exploring the incredible marine life of the Great Barrier Reef with confidence.

We look forward to welcoming you on your scuba diving adventure in Cairns.