The CLP Government has announced a bold initiative to provide free swimming and water safety lessons for all primary school-aged children in the Northern Territory, starting next year. Children in Years 1 to 6 will benefit from the program, which aims to equip young Territorians with vital skills to navigate the Territory’s aquatic lifestyle safely.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro shared the vision behind the initiative during a visit to the Goldfishbowl Swim School in Palmerston, accompanied by Member for Blain Matthew Kerle. She emphasised the government’s commitment to easing financial pressures on families while prioritising safety and life skills.
“With our fantastic outdoor lifestyle, learning to swim is a fundamental skill all Territory children should have,” Mrs Finocchiaro said. “Our program ensures that every child has access to lifesaving skills, removing financial barriers that may have stopped them from participating.”
The program, supported by a $3 million investment, will fund swimming lessons and cover transport costs to ensure access for all schools, including those in remote areas. Tailored programs will be designed for schools with limited access to pools, utilising both public and private facilities, with transport and accommodation costs also included.
Education and Training Minister Jo Hersey highlighted the urgency of addressing the Territory’s alarming drowning statistics.
“Territorians are three times more likely to drown than anyone else in Australia, and that needs to change,” she said. “This initiative removes financial barriers, ensuring no child misses out on learning skills that could save their life.”
The Executive Director of Royal Life Saving NT, Floss Roberts, praised the move, citing the program’s potential to transform water safety culture across the region.
“We have the highest drowning rate per capita in the whole of Australia,” she said. “This initiative will make a profound difference, ensuring children develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need around water.”
Parents have also welcomed the change. Kristy West, Principal of Woodroffe Primary School, noted the added benefit for families.
“Many parents currently use their Sports Voucher to fund swimming lessons. With schools now funded to provide these lessons, families can redirect their vouchers to other sports and recreational activities,” she said.
This initiative builds on the government’s existing Sport Voucher Scheme, broadening the opportunities for children while reinforcing essential water safety education. For a region deeply connected to its waterways, this program is set to make a lasting impact on children’s safety and confidence in the water.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
