The Andrews Labor Government is helping the next wave of Victorian kids learn to swim and have fun safely at the beach and in the pool this summer.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today visited Sunshine Leisure Centre to announce $800,000 in funding to run the popular VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program for another two years.
The learn-to-swim summer program has been running since 1976, helping generations of young Victorians aged between four and 12 learn life-saving skills, swimming basics, water safety and survival knowledge. The program provides families with five low-cost, 30-minute lessons across a week.
A record 16,141 children took part in the program last summer at 167 venues across Victoria – including 123 regional venues – coordinated by Aquatics and Recreation Victoria. The program will support 300 casual workers to deliver three weeks of water safety and skill development in January.
Tragically, 13 children under the age of 17 drowned in Australia last year, which highlights the importance of programs like the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program to teach kids water safety and skills.
The Labor Government is investing $55.2 million to support swim and water safety education programs in government, Catholic and special schools, and will also introduce them in government English language schools.
For more information and to enrol in VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program 2022 classes, visit vicswim.com.au.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
“Swimming and water sports are a way of life in Australia but there are still too many kids drowning – which is why our continued investment in VICSWIM is so important.”
“We’re making it easier for families to access the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program no matter where they live or their circumstances – so more Victorian kids can learn to swim safely.”
As stated by Aquatics and Recreation Victoria chief executive Kathy Parton
“This funding will ensure we can provide vital skills and safety knowledge to thousands of kids at different locations across regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne – as well as support about 300 jobs.”
As stated by Sunshine Leisure Centre facilities operations manager Arron Holman
“I am excited that the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program can be provided again in 2022 and 2023. This intensive learn-to-swim and water safety program is really popular amongst families in Brimbank City Council.”
