9192f861-c28c-4554-a0fe-cb44af060eeb Stage 4- First Aid Awareness Royal Life Saving is an international leader in lifesaving education programs. Learn how to save lives in and around a range of aquatic environments Menu > Stage 4 - Lifesaving > Stage 5 - Lifesaving > Stage 4- First Aid Awareness > Stage 5- First Aid Awareness > Swim Safe Swim Sober The High School First Aid Awareness Program is a tool for High School Teachers in teaching students how to be a safe, active and responsible citizens in everyday situations. The focus is on teaching students how to respond to realistic scenarios leading to injury. Students need to actively apply basic first aid principles and where applicable, determine preventative actions where risky behaviour is a precursor to injury. First aid content is divided into 5 key injury areas - Bites, Breaks, Burns, Bleeds and Breathing. Teacher resources provide a framework for lessons/topics, scenario content and the corresponding first aid treatment students need to determine and demonstrate. Content has been written to align to the Australian and NSW Health and Physical Education Curriculums meaning teachers can deliver the content whilst ensuring they are meeting curriculum outcomes. Curriculum for stage 4: AUS: ACPPS072 - Practise and apply strategies to seek help for themselves or others NSW: PD4 - 7, PD4-9, PD4-10 Enrol Now

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Royal Life Saving is encouraging our states and communities to pledge action against drowning this World Drowning Prevention Day, 25 July 2022. Marking its second consecutive year, the annual day proclaimed by United Nations expresses the key message to take one action, to do one thing to prevent drownings. With a 30 percent rise in drowning experienced last summer and successive floods across the country, it is more important than ever to be vigilant and mindful of our surroundings no matter the water environment. “If you are camping, and go fishing with your mates on the river, it’s as simple as wearing a lifejacket, or parents actively supervising their kids around water. We can all take these steps to ensure we are all protected and safe around all waterways,” said Michael Ilinsky, CEO of Royal Life Saving NSW-ACT-TAS What one thing, one action will you take to prevent drowning? Let us know in the comments! More information and resources can be found on the Royal Life Saving Australia website. 25 July 2022 Do one thing to help prevent drownings as we mark World Drowning Prevention Day 2022 Drowning Prevention < Back to News Royal Life Saving is encouraging our states and communities to pledge action against drowning this World Drowning Prevention Day, 25 July 2022. Marking its second consecutive year, the annual day proclaimed by United Nations expresses the key message to take one action, to do one thing to prevent drownings. With a 30 percent rise in drowning experienced last summer and successive floods across the country, it is more important than ever to be vigilant and mindful of our surroundings no matter the water environment. “ If you are camping, and go fishing with your mates on the river, it’s as simple as wearing a lifejacket, or parents actively supervising their kids around water. We can all take these steps to ensure we are all protected and safe around all waterways ,” said Michael Ilinsky, CEO of Royal Life Saving NSW-ACT-TAS What one thing, one action will you take to prevent drowning? Let us know in the comments! More information and resources can be found on the Royal Life Saving Australia website. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUR6T4eoJn4 Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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Residents on the north coast town of Casino are excited as the upgrade of the Casino Memorial Swimming Pool is nearing completion. After the past 3 seasons without a pool, patrons and user groups have had to travel to other areas for a swim or aquatic activity. The redevelopment is part of Council’s ongoing commitment to provide high-quality recreational facilities to the Richmond Valley community. The existing pool was originally built in 1952 and was extensively refurbished in 1983. Council began working on a concept master plan six years ago, with the first draft put on public exhibition in late 2018, and subsequently refined following public input. The scope of the project has been expanded to deliver what will become a high quality year-round recreational facility for Casino and the Richmond Valley communities. Key elements of the master plan are: Construction of a new eight-lane 50m pool, with new filtration system and heating. Construction of a 25m indoor heated pool to allow lap swimming along with all-age exercise and learn-to-swim classes, with retractable walls and doors for open air use during summer. Construction of a shaded water play space with sprays, fountains, and jets and a shallow splash area to 0.7m deep. Entrance upgrade and paved forecourt. Refurbishment of the existing shower facilities and change rooms, complying with current WHS and mobility access standards including non-slip flooring, new showers and plumbing fixtures. Upgraded gym and new swimming club house. New large twin flume water slide. One key benefit of the new facility will be the replacement of the current 50m pool with an eight-lane heated pool, open for at least 10 months of the year. The facility will be managed by the team at Richmond Valley Aquatics. There are currently positions available at the pool including a Management position. Richmond Valley Aquatics are proud partners of the Keep Watch @ Public Pools program and utilise RLS training services for all their staff qualification needs. Pictured below are the concept drawings submitted by the successful tenderer, Facility Design Group Pty Ltd, as well as progress images supplied by Richmond Valley Aquatics 9 Aug 2023 Upgrade of Casino Memorial Swimming Pool nearing completion News and Media < Back to News Residents on the north coast town of Casino are excited as the upgrade of the Casino Memorial Swimming Pool is nearing completion. After the past 3 seasons without a pool, patrons and user groups have had to travel to other areas for a swim or aquatic activity. The redevelopment is part of Council’s ongoing commitment to provide high-quality recreational facilities to the Richmond Valley community. The existing pool was originally built in 1952 and was extensively refurbished in 1983. Council began working on a concept master plan six years ago, with the first draft put on public exhibition in late 2018, and subsequently refined following public input. The scope of the project has been expanded to deliver what will become a high quality year-round recreational facility for Casino and the Richmond Valley communities. Key elements of the master plan are: Construction of a new eight-lane 50m pool, with new filtration system and heating. Construction of a 25m indoor heated pool to allow lap swimming along with all-age exercise and learn-to-swim classes, with retractable walls and doors for open air use during summer. Construction of a shaded water play space with sprays, fountains, and jets and a shallow splash area to 0.7m deep. Entrance upgrade and paved forecourt. Refurbishment of the existing shower facilities and change rooms, complying with current WHS and mobility access standards including non-slip flooring, new showers and plumbing fixtures. Upgraded gym and new swimming club house. New large twin flume water slide. One key benefit of the new facility will be the replacement of the current 50m pool with an eight-lane heated pool, open for at least 10 months of the year. The facility will be managed by the team at Richmond Valley Aquatics. There are currently positions available at the pool including a Management position. Richmond Valley Aquatics are proud partners of the Keep Watch @ Public Pools program and utilise RLS training services for all their staff qualification needs. Pictured below are the concept drawings submitted by the successful tenderer, Facility Design Group Pty Ltd, as well as progress images supplied by Richmond Valley Aquatics Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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Ashmont Public School recognises swimming as a vital life skill and believes that every student should have the opportunity to learn it. Many families in the community face financial barriers that prevent them from accessing lessons, and by participating in Project Elevate, the school aimed to ensure equitable access to swimming and water safety education while also supporting students’ overall wellbeing through physical activity and movement. As the program progressed, students demonstrated significant improvements in both confidence and ability. They became much more comfortable in the water, happily putting their faces in and trusting their own ability to stand safely. Those working on stroke development were proud to see themselves swimming further with correct arm and leg movements, while others built trust in their skills and overcame their initial hesitation. The program created a sense of achievement that could be seen in the big smiles on students’ faces when they reached their goals. Project Elevate closely supported the school’s educational and wellbeing priorities. It reflected key learning outcomes from the NSW PDHPE syllabus, catered for students of all skill levels, and encouraged full participation. By fostering resilience, healthy lifestyles, and emotional regulation, the program not only helped students to develop as swimmers but also supported their physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Families and staff provided strong positive feedback, and the program contributed to a more positive school culture overall. Because the program was delivered at no cost, a larger percentage of students were able to participate than in previous years. This removed a significant barrier for families and allowed more children to experience the benefits of swimming and water safety education. The impact extended beyond the lessons themselves, with students looking forward to summer and feeling confident about swimming in the carnival. Ashmont Public School strongly recommends Project Elevate to other schools, describing it as well organised, engaging, and accessible to all students. It catered to the diverse needs of their learners and left students more confident and capable in the water. For the school community, Project Elevate provided far more than swimming lessons; it delivered essential life skills, boosted wellbeing, and created opportunities that families in a low socioeconomic area may not otherwise have had. The program’s success was evident in the growth, confidence, and joy it brought to students, leaving a lasting impact on both the school and its community. 8 Oct 2025 The People of Project Elevate Ashmont Primary School Drowning Prevention < Back to News Ashmont Public School recognises swimming as a vital life skill and believes that every student should have the opportunity to learn it. Many families in the community face financial barriers that prevent them from accessing lessons, and by participating in Project Elevate, the school aimed to ensure equitable access to swimming and water safety education while also supporting students’ overall wellbeing through physical activity and movement. As the program progressed, students demonstrated significant improvements in both confidence and ability. They became much more comfortable in the water, happily putting their faces in and trusting their own ability to stand safely. Those working on stroke development were proud to see themselves swimming further with correct arm and leg movements, while others built trust in their skills and overcame their initial hesitation. The program created a sense of achievement that could be seen in the big smiles on students’ faces when they reached their goals. Project Elevate closely supported the school’s educational and wellbeing priorities. It reflected key learning outcomes from the NSW PDHPE syllabus, catered for students of all skill levels, and encouraged full participation. By fostering resilience, healthy lifestyles, and emotional regulation, the program not only helped students to develop as swimmers but also supported their physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Families and staff provided strong positive feedback, and the program contributed to a more positive school culture overall. Because the program was delivered at no cost, a larger percentage of students were able to participate than in previous years. This removed a significant barrier for families and allowed more children to experience the benefits of swimming and water safety education. The impact extended beyond the lessons themselves, with students looking forward to summer and feeling confident about swimming in the carnival. Ashmont Public School strongly recommends Project Elevate to other schools, describing it as well organised, engaging, and accessible to all students. It catered to the diverse needs of their learners and left students more confident and capable in the water. For the school community, Project Elevate provided far more than swimming lessons; it delivered essential life skills, boosted wellbeing, and created opportunities that families in a low socioeconomic area may not otherwise have had. The program’s success was evident in the growth, confidence, and joy it brought to students, leaving a lasting impact on both the school and its community. Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

Each year Royal Life Saving Society NSW presents Commendation Awards to those people who have displayed outstanding initiative, expertise, and empathy towards their fellow human beings by applying lifesaving skills in emergency situations and sometimes at risk to themselves. We were extremely honoured to have our Patron, Her Excellency The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of New South Wales host the Ceremony at Government House Sydney on Thursday 8 February 2024. 11 Certificates of Commendation were presented to members of the general public and 14 NSW Police Awards to officers of the New South Wales Police Force at the ceremony. Recipients are from all corners of NSW, from Forbes to Northern NSW and the greater Sydney region, and from the boarders of Queensland and Victoria. Presenting the Commendations, Her Excellency Margaret Beazley said the courageous actions to save the life of a fellow human being amidst great danger reflect the pinnacle of selflessness and human compassion. “Being equipped with first aid skills and knowing what to do in these situations is an important responsibility for each of us. I thank and honour the remarkable people we have gathered here today who have exhibited just that. Your bravery and selflessness are truly extraordinary.” Royal Life Saving President, Mr Jim Whiteside, thanked the recipients for their instinctive call to offer assistance, their selfless responses and quick-thinking action in the rescue, attempted rescue, resuscitative or first aid efforts. “Many of these outstanding recipients were not trained professionals. They called on past first aid or CPR training during stressful situations and embody Royal Life Saving’s vision for a community equipped with the skills to support one another,” Mr Whiteside said. “In the 130th year of the Royal Life Saving Society, there is nothing more significant than to honour the efforts of these individuals. It also provides a timely reminder for community-wide recognition that we all have a role to play in keeping one another safe. We are inspired.” COMMENDATION AWARD Ms Thao Havebond Mr Alberto Torres Perez Mr Ethan Goldsmith Mr Michael Brown Mr Mark Hayes Mr Frank Schlie Mr Cooper Morgan Mr Lachlan O’Callaghan Mr Nathan Kirkwood Mr Marko Skourmallas Mr David Finn NSW POLICE AWARD Detective Senior Constable Brady Blanch Chief Inspector Garry Sims APM Constable Samuel Carpenter Probationary Constable Huw Moore Senior Constable Emily Riley Sergeant Virginia McPherson Senior Constable Christopher Lynch Senior Constable Adam Cooper Senior Constable Craig Michell Senior Constable Timothy Lockwood Constable Nicholas Murray Senior Constable Robert McCallum Sergeant Paul Nicoll We thank and honour the incredible efforts of these recipients and all those nominated whose courage and selflessness is truly remarkable. To learn more about these extraordinary individuals please refer to our 2024 NSW Commendations Awards Ceremony booklet below. Photo credit @robtuckwellphotography 9 Feb 2024 NSW Governor commends community life savers in Royal Life Saving awards ceremony News and Media < Back to News Each year Royal Life Saving Society NSW presents Commendation Awards to those people who have displayed outstanding initiative, expertise, and empathy towards their fellow human beings by applying lifesaving skills in emergency situations and sometimes at risk to themselves. We were extremely honoured to have our Patron, Her Excellency The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of New South Wales host the Ceremony at Government House Sydney on Thursday 8 February 2024. 11 Certificates of Commendation were presented to members of the general public and 14 NSW Police Awards to officers of the New South Wales Police Force at the ceremony. Recipients are from all corners of NSW, from Forbes to Northern NSW and the greater Sydney region, and from the boarders of Queensland and Victoria. Presenting the Commendations, Her Excellency Margaret Beazley said the courageous actions to save the life of a fellow human being amidst great danger reflect the pinnacle of selflessness and human compassion. “Being equipped with first aid skills and knowing what to do in these situations is an important responsibility for each of us. I thank and honour the remarkable people we have gathered here today who have exhibited just that. Your bravery and selflessness are truly extraordinary.” Royal Life Saving President, Mr Jim Whiteside, thanked the recipients for their instinctive call to offer assistance, their selfless responses and quick-thinking action in the rescue, attempted rescue, resuscitative or first aid efforts. “Many of these outstanding recipients were not trained professionals. They called on past first aid or CPR training during stressful situations and embody Royal Life Saving’s vision for a community equipped with the skills to support one another,” Mr Whiteside said. “In the 130th year of the Royal Life Saving Society, there is nothing more significant than to honour the efforts of these individuals. It also provides a timely reminder for community-wide recognition that we all have a role to play in keeping one another safe. We are inspired.” C OMMENDATION AWARD Ms Thao Havebond Mr Alberto Torres Perez Mr Ethan Goldsmith Mr Michael Brown Mr Mark Hayes Mr Frank Schlie Mr Cooper Morgan Mr Lachlan O’Callaghan Mr Nathan Kirkwood Mr Marko Skourmallas Mr David Finn NSW POLICE AWARD Detective Senior Constable Brady Blanch Chief Inspector Garry Sims APM Constable Samuel Carpenter Probationary Constable Huw Moore Senior Constable Emily Riley Sergeant Virginia McPherson Senior Constable Christopher Lynch Senior Constable Adam Cooper Senior Constable Craig Michell Senior Constable Timothy Lockwood Constable Nicholas Murray Senior Constable Robert McCallum Sergeant Paul Nicoll We thank and honour the incredible efforts of these recipients and all those nominated whose courage and selflessness is truly remarkable. To learn more about these extraordinary individuals please refer to our 2024 NSW Commendations Awards Ceremony booklet below. Photo credit @robtuckwellphotography 2024 NSW Commendation Awards Ceremony Citation Booklet (1) .pdf Download PDF • 5.64MB Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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In response to the Royal Commission’s findings, in 2019 the Australian Government developed the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations (National Principles). These principles were subsequently endorsed by all state and territory governments. Several states have legislated the principles as standards that organisations that provide services to children, must legally comply with. The production of this section of the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations has been a result of the NAIC (National Aquatic Industry Committee) that is represented by over 20 organisations, councils and legal representatives throughout Australia to provide input and guidance in their respective areas of expertise. This Guideline provides practical guidance for owners or operators of aquatic facilities in relation to measures needed to protect children and young people from abuse and/or related harm as a result of participation and/or attendance: • In an aquatic facility • In programs and/or services delivered by an aquatic facility or at an aquatic facility • In programs and/or services delivered by a third-party organisation in association with an aquatic facility • In formal aquatic programs and/or services delivered by a person or organisation outside of an aquatic facility Consultation is now open for Industry feedback to the Draft guidelines Version 3 of Child Safety in Aquatic Facilities. The full Draft version of the Guidelines can be viewed here: To view the draft guideline, head to the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations section of the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia website: https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/subscribers/GSPO/child-safety To provide feedback on the guideline, please return feedback by way of the provided form to: aquatics@rlssa.org.au 27 Apr 2023 Industry Consultation Now Open. Draft Guidelines in Child Safety in Aquatic Facilities News and Media < Back to News In response to the Royal Commission’s findings, in 2019 the Australian Government developed the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations (National Principles). These principles were subsequently endorsed by all state and territory governments. Several states have legislated the principles as standards that organisations that provide services to children, must legally comply with. The production of this section of the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations has been a result of the NAIC (National Aquatic Industry Committee) that is represented by over 20 organisations, councils and legal representatives throughout Australia to provide input and guidance in their respective areas of expertise. This Guideline provides practical guidance for owners or operators of aquatic facilities in relation to measures needed to protect children and young people from abuse and/or related harm as a result of participation and/or attendance: • In an aquatic facility • In programs and/or services delivered by an aquatic facility or at an aquatic facility • In programs and/or services delivered by a third-party organisation in association with an aquatic facility • In formal aquatic programs and/or services delivered by a person or organisation outside of an aquatic facility Consultation is now open for Industry feedback to the Draft guidelines Version 3 of Child Safety in Aquatic Facilities. The full Draft version of the Guidelines can be viewed here: Guidelines for Child Safety (Final Draft for Industry Consultation) V3 .1 Revised April 202 Download 1 REVISED APRIL 202 • 1.01MB To view the draft guideline, head to the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations section of the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia website: https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/subscribers/GSPO/child-safety To provide feedback on the guideline, please return feedback by way of the provided form to: aquatics@rlssa.org.au Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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The National Drowning Report 2023, developed by Royal Life Saving – Australia in partnership with Surf Life Saving Australia, provides an analysis of fatal drowning between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. When presenting these figures, we are mindful of the devasting impact that drowning has on everyone affected: those who have died or had their lives forever altered by a non-fatal drowning incident, their families, friends, communities, and those who put their own lives at risk to save others. Key Findings: The analysis shows that 281 people lost their lives to drowning in Australia last financial year. Nationally, the number of drowning fatalities in children aged 0-4 years (16 deaths, 6%) was 33 per cent below the ten-year average. 57% of drowning deaths were people over the age of 45 years. Drowning was above the 10-year average for all age groups 45 years and older except for 65-74,where there was no change. The leading drowning locations for nationally were rivers/creeks (76 deaths, 27%), beaches (75 deaths, 27%), and ocean/harbours (33 deaths, 10%). The National Drowning Report analysis also shows that those residing in regional and remote areas drown at higher rates compared to those residing in major cities and that those living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas drown at higher rates that those in advantaged areas. Further findings: Drowning fatalities in young children continue to decrease. Older adults are a growing concern. Poor swimming skills compound drowning risk Boating deaths decline by 40% Regional and remote communities drown at higher rates. Inland waterways Since 2002, more drowning deaths have occurred in rivers/creeks than any other body of water. In 2022/23, rivers/creeks were the leading drowning location again with 76 drowning deaths. Most river/creek drowning deaths occurred in the 33-44 year and 45-54 year age groups and occurred while swimming and recreating. Nearly one third (32%) of river/creek drowning deaths occurred in the springtime months of September, October, and November, and two thirds occurred in regional and remote areas. Breakdown by State / Territory ACT There were 0 unintentional drowning deaths in the ACT between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. However, our 20-year report found there have been 43 drowning deaths in the ACT over the past 20 years. NSW There were 107 drowning deaths that occurred in NSW between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. In the past 20 years, there has been a 25% decrease in drowning rates and a 10% decrease in the number of drowning deaths when comparing baseline years 2002/07 and 2017/22. NSW Overview: 2022/23 drowning deaths: 107 10-Year average: 95 This is a 13% increase compared to the 10-year average. This is a 7% increase compared to the 10-year average. NSW 2022/23 Facts: 78% of drowning deaths were males (83 deaths) 14% of drowning deaths adults aged 75 years or older (15 deaths) 3% of drowning deaths children under 5 years of age (3 deaths) NSW continues to have the highest number of drownings in Australia - almost double the rates of QLD and VIC; and triple the rates of Western Australia. TAS There were 4 drowning deaths that occurred in TAS between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. In the past 20 years, there has been a 29% decrease in drowning rates and a 18% decrease in the number of drowning deaths when comparing baseline years 2002/07 and 2017/22. 2022/23 drowning deaths: 4 10-year average: 9 This is a 56% decrease compared to the 10-year average This is a 56% decrease compared to the 10-year average 2022/23 Tasmania Facts: 100% of drowning deaths were males (4 deaths) 50% of drowning deaths adults aged 45 – 54 years (2 deaths) 50% of drowning deaths occurred at Ocean/harbour location (2 deaths) Summer is fast approaching Royal Life Saving acknowledges there has been some improvements in the number of drowning deaths in the past year, however we are concerned about summer fast approaching. The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting higher than average temperatures across Australia from early September and into 2024, which will increase the use of coastal and inland waterways and swimming pools. We urge everyone to keep water safety front of mind as you enjoy time in, on and around the water this summer. View the Full Report Here> 11 Sept 2023 National Drowning Report News and Media < Back to News The National Drowning Report 2023, developed by Royal Life Saving – Australia in partnership with Surf Life Saving Australia, provides an analysis of fatal drowning between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. When presenting these figures, we are mindful of the devasting impact that drowning has on everyone affected: those who have died or had their lives forever altered by a non-fatal drowning incident, their families, friends, communities, and those who put their own lives at risk to save others. Key Findings: The analysis shows that 281 people lost their lives to drowning in Australia last financial year. Nationally, the number of drowning fatalities in children aged 0-4 years (16 deaths, 6%) was 33 per cent below the ten-year average. 57% of drowning deaths were people over the age of 45 years. Drowning was above the 10-year average for all age groups 45 years and older except for 65-74,where there was no change. The leading drowning locations for nationally were rivers/creeks (76 deaths, 27%), beaches (75 deaths, 27%), and ocean/harbours (33 deaths, 10%). The National Drowning Report analysis also shows that those residing in regional and remote areas drown at higher rates compared to those residing in major cities and that those living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas drown at higher rates that those in advantaged areas. Further findings: Drowning fatalities in young children continue to decrease. Older adults are a growing concern. Poor swimming skills compound drowning risk Boating deaths decline by 40% Regional and remote communities drown at higher rates. Inland waterways Since 2002, more drowning deaths have occurred in rivers/creeks than any other body of water. In 2022/23, rivers/creeks were the leading drowning location again with 76 drowning deaths. Most river/creek drowning deaths occurred in the 33-44 year and 45-54 year age groups and occurred while swimming and recreating. Nearly one third (32%) of river/creek drowning deaths occurred in the springtime months of September, October, and November, and two thirds occurred in regional and remote areas. Breakdown by State / Territory ACT There were 0 unintentional drowning deaths in the ACT between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. However, our 20-year report found there have been 43 drowning deaths in the ACT over the past 20 years. NSW There were 107 drowning deaths that occurred in NSW between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. In the past 20 years, there has been a 25% decrease in drowning rates and a 10% decrease in the number of drowning deaths when comparing baseline years 2002/07 and 2017/22. NSW Overview: 2022/23 drowning deaths: 107 10-Year average: 95 This is a 13% increase compared to the 10-year average. This is a 7% increase compared to the 10-year average. NSW 2022/23 Facts: 78% of drowning deaths were males (83 deaths) 14% of drowning deaths adults aged 75 years or older (15 deaths) 3% of drowning deaths children under 5 years of age (3 deaths) NSW continues to have the highest number of drownings in Australia - almost double the rates of QLD and VIC; and triple the rates of Western Australia. TAS There were 4 drowning deaths that occurred in TAS between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. In the past 20 years, there has been a 29% decrease in drowning rates and a 18% decrease in the number of drowning deaths when comparing baseline years 2002/07 and 2017/22. 2022/23 drowning deaths: 4 10-year average: 9 This is a 56% decrease compared to the 10-year average This is a 56% decrease compared to the 10-year average 2022/23 Tasmania Facts: 100% of drowning deaths were males (4 deaths) 50% of drowning deaths adults aged 45 – 54 years (2 deaths) 50% of drowning deaths occurred at Ocean/harbour location (2 deaths) Summer is fast approaching Royal Life Saving acknowledges there has been some improvements in the number of drowning deaths in the past year, however we are concerned about summer fast approaching. The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting higher than average temperatures across Australia from early September and into 2024, which will increase the use of coastal and inland waterways and swimming pools. We urge everyone to keep water safety front of mind as you enjoy time in, on and around the water this summer. View the Full Report Here> Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

Royal Life Saving ACT is proud to announce that it has been awarded the tender to deliver the Year Two Water Safety Program on behalf of the ACT Department of Education. This vital initiative aims to equip young students across the ACT with essential water safety knowledge and swimming skills. The program will be rolled out at various swimming centres throughout the ACT, providing convenient and accessible locations for participating schools and families. Delivered by qualified and experienced swim teachers, the program is designed to give Year Two students a strong foundation in water safety, with a focus on confidence, competence, and awareness in and around aquatic environments. "Water safety is a life skill every child deserves to learn," said Lucas Hayden, ACT Regional Manager for Royal Life Saving ACT. "We are excited to partner with the ACT Department of Education to help ensure that every Year Two student has the opportunity to develop critical water safety knowledge that will serve them for life." Royal Life Saving ACT has a long-standing commitment to promoting water safety education across the territory. By engaging students at an early age, this program supports the broader community goal of reducing drownings and water-related incidents. The organisation looks forward to working closely with schools, teachers, parents, and the broader ACT community to make this initiative a success. 1 July 2025 Royal Life Saving ACT Secures Tender to Deliver Year Two Water Safety Program for ACT Schools Swimming & Lifesaving < Back to News Royal Life Saving ACT is proud to announce that it has been awarded the tender to deliver the Year Two Water Safety Program on behalf of the ACT Department of Education. This vital initiative aims to equip young students across the ACT with essential water safety knowledge and swimming skills. The program will be rolled out at various swimming centres throughout the ACT, providing convenient and accessible locations for participating schools and families. Delivered by qualified and experienced swim teachers, the program is designed to give Year Two students a strong foundation in water safety, with a focus on confidence, competence, and awareness in and around aquatic environments. "Water safety is a life skill every child deserves to learn," said Lucas Hayden, ACT Regional Manager for Royal Life Saving ACT. "We are excited to partner with the ACT Department of Education to help ensure that every Year Two student has the opportunity to develop critical water safety knowledge that will serve them for life." Royal Life Saving ACT has a long-standing commitment to promoting water safety education across the territory. By engaging students at an early age, this program supports the broader community goal of reducing drownings and water-related incidents. The organisation looks forward to working closely with schools, teachers, parents, and the broader ACT community to make this initiative a success. Previous Next < Back to News Related Posts A Great Day on the Green at the Drowning Prevention Golf Day News and Media National Drowning Report 2026: New South Wales drowning toll reinforces need for action News and Media Celebrate World First Aid Day with 10% Off First Aid Training News and Media

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