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
🏊♂️#NorthernTerritory launches free #swimming & water safety lessons for primary school kids.🌊 A $3 million initiative aims to equip young Territorians with lifesaving skills.🦸♀️ A great leap towards safety!👏 Are your kids ready? 🎯 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/9xQuIConE6
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) November 24, 2024
Donate To The Indian Sun
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun is an independent organisation committed to community journalism. We have, through the years, been able to reach a wide audience especially with the growth of social media, where we also have a strong presence. With platforms such as YouTube videos, we have been able to engage in different forms of storytelling. However, the past few years, like many media organisations around the world, it has not been an easy path. We have a greater challenge. We believe community journalism is very important for a multicultural country like Australia. We’re not able to do everything, but we aim for some of the most interesting stories and journalism of quality. We call upon readers like you to support us and make any contribution. Do make a DONATION NOW so we can continue with the volume and quality journalism that we are able to practice.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes,
Team The Indian Sun
