The NSW Government has announced the biggest funding commitment ever for Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), pledging an additional $23 million over four years to help keep NSW beaches safe.
It comes as more than 20,000 active SLSNSW volunteer lifesavers begin the patrol season today, with the symbolic raising of the red and yellow flags at Maroubra Beach, Sydney.
With predictions of a hot and dry summer, the funding commitment reinforces the critical role of SLSNSW in safeguarding the lives of NSW beachgoers.
Last year was one of the worst for drowning fatalities, with 48 lives tragically lost along the NSW coastline and 26 coastal drownings recorded over the summer months.
Beachgoers are being urged to exercise caution and observe water safety advice from lifesavers and lifeguards this patrolling season, which runs until 28 April 2024.
The increased funding for SLSNSW will build on its capacity to protect lives over the warmer months.
As part of the funding package, SLSNSW will receive $18 million over four years through the NSW Rescue Capability Grant, for additional resources and equipment including 67 rescue watercraft, such as jet skis.
The funding will also deliver 40 permanent Emergency Response Beacons in blackspot locations, helping SLSNSW extend services in unpatrolled areas in an effort to reduce coastal drownings.
The NSW government’s investment in SLSNSW will also support the upgrade, restoration and construction of surf lifesaving facilities through an additional $5 million over four years for the Office of Sport’s Surf Club Facility Program.
This program aims to assist eligible Surf Life Saving Clubs to develop facilities that will enable increased participation in Surf Life Saving for all people, increase facility usage, and improve safety.
SLSNSW is one of the largest volunteer organisations of its kind in the nation with a membership of more than 75,000.
Additionally, these Surf Life Saving Clubs serve as vital community hubs across NSW.
On top of the $23 million, the national body Surf Life Saving Australia will receive almost $5.8 million over four years for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter, including a crucial upgrade to the hangar door at La Perouse.
Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:
“New South Wales has the best beaches in the world and we’re incredibly fortunate to have the best surf life savers as well.”
“We have very dedicated, very brave volunteers, who often put themselves into dangerous situations to help others.”
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy our beaches safely. This is an important investment in life saving technology and human capital, so we know we have the resources we need right up and down the coast this summer.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“This is the largest amount of funding the NSW Government has ever committed to Surf Life Saving NSW and we are proud to deliver on our promise to support these heroes in their vital work.”
“I want to thank our volunteers who give their time so that the community can enjoy a day in the surf, so please follow their advice to stay safe.”
“By equipping Surf Life Saving NSW with vital resources and cutting-edge technology, we amplify their life-saving efforts and reaffirm our promise to protect our communities.”
Minister for Sport Stephen Kamper said:
“Surf Life Saving Clubs provide a vital service, protecting people in the water and supporting a healthy lifestyle and often lifelong passion for members.”
“Our volunteer surf lifesavers are on our beaches, rain, hail or shine, protecting the community and ensuring people are safe at the beach.”
“The record funding for the Surf Club Facility Program will provide our surf life savers with more modern, inclusive and accessible facilities that will better enable them to keep the community safe at the beach.”
President of Surf Life Saving NSW Peter Agnew said:
“This is a great time to remind the community about the benefits of volunteering to be a lifesaver.
“You can volunteer as little or as much as you like and in every role, from admin, to first aid, to teaching Nippers or helping in the club canteen.”
“You can learn new skills like flying a drone or driving an inflatable rescue boat, improve your fitness and mental wellbeing and be part of a great community.”
“Finally, I want to thank our lifesavers for again standing tall and protecting our beaches and I wish them all a safe summer.”