Australia’s waters are a source of recreation and joy, but for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, they can also pose a significant risk. The National Drowning Report 2024 reveals that drowning incidents among CALD populations, including Indian migrants, remain alarmingly high. Of the 323 drowning deaths recorded last year, 83 (25 per cent) involved people born overseas. Long-term research suggests this figure could rise to 34 per cent, reflecting the vulnerability of newly arrived migrants.
With many drowning victims originating from countries like India, China, and Nepal, the first few months and years in Australia are critical for building water safety awareness and swimming skills. Tragically, limited access to water safety education, cultural barriers, and a lack of experience in aquatic environments continue to contribute to these incidents.
In response, Victoria Police is stepping up efforts to tackle this troubling trend with key water safety messages tailored to CALD communities. Their aim is to prevent tragedies and ensure everyone can enjoy Australia’s waterways safely.
Inspector Sonali Deshpande of Victoria Police offers crucial advice for newcomers, especially those unfamiliar with Australia’s aquatic environments.
“I came from India and didn’t know how to swim when I first arrived in Australia,” Deshpande admits. “Many people from CALD communities face similar challenges. They may not understand how to read water conditions, which are vastly different here, or know the precautions to take when engaging in water-related activities.”
She emphasises how the unique climate and water behaviour in Australia can catch people off guard. “Here, conditions can change within minutes, as can the water landscape. This unpredictability is something people need to recognise.”
Key safety tips for all:
- Learn to Swim: “It’s a life skill and essential for living in an island nation like Australia.”
- Swim Between the Flags: “Patrolled beaches are the safest places, with trained lifesavers ready to assist.”
- Understand Signage: “If language barriers make this difficult, seek help from lifesavers or other beachgoers.”
- Wear Life Jackets: “This applies not just to swimming but also to boating, jet-skiing, or fishing.”
- Research Conditions: “Before visiting unfamiliar waters, check the weather, read about the area, and understand potential risks.”
- Stay close to your friends and family, especially children, when swimming. If swimming alone, inform someone and stay within sight of lifesaving volunteers or other beachgoers.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs: Refrain from consuming alcohol or using drugs around water, as they can impair judgement and reaction time
Addressing safety at home, Deshpande adds: “Even shallow water can be dangerous, particularly for children. Families should implement safety measures around pools and teach kids about the risks.”
She also cautions against risky behaviours, such as consuming alcohol while engaging in water activities like boating or jet-skiing.
Numerous initiatives aim to promote water safety among CALD communities. Life Saving Victoria offers free swimming lessons, while Victoria Police collaborates with local organisations to deliver safety programmes.
“Engagement is key,” Deshpande remarks. “We reach out through social media, radio, and community events to share safety messages in multiple languages.”
Her advice is straightforward but impactful: “Learn to swim—it’s a life skill. Always research your destination, check weather conditions, and ensure safety measures are in place. Wear life jackets when boating and stay vigilant. With proper preparation, water activities can be enjoyed safely.”
Inspector Deshpande concludes with a reminder that water safety is a collective responsibility. “By staying informed and cautious, we can prevent tragedies and keep our communities safe.”
For more resources, visit Life Saving Victoria’s website.
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🌊#Drowning risks remain high among CALD communities, including Indian migrants, in Australia.🏖 @VictoriaPolice & @LifeSavingVic stress water safety awareness, urging newcomers to learn swimming & stay vigilant.🚩How do u stay water-safe?🌟 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/QegGiU86ui
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) January 15, 2025
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