• Fact: Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for children under 5 in Australia (Royal Life Saving Australia).

• Fact: Over 300 people drown in Australia each year, many in coastal and inland waterways.

• Fact: Swimming improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and reduces stress.

• Fact: It’s one of the most popular sports in Australia, with over 3 million people participating regularly (Sport Australia).

• Fact: Australia has produced world-class swimmers like Ian Thorpe and Emma McKeon.

• Fact: Swimming is a core sport in school programs and the Olympics, and beaches are central to Australian lifestyle and tourism.

Some families may struggle to afford regular swimming lessons or live in areas without easy access to pools. This can make it difficult for all children to learn to swim at an early age, especially in rural or low-income communities.

1. Funding Free or Low-Cost Swimming Lessons
They can support programs that provide free or subsidised swimming lessons for families who can't afford them, especially in low-income or rural areas.

2. Building and Maintaining Community Pools
Investing in public swimming facilities ensures more communities have access to safe places to learn and practise swimming.

3. Including Swimming in the School Curriculum
Making swimming lessons a compulsory part of the school curriculum can ensure all children receive basic water safety and swimming education, regardless of their background.