Victoria is one of the most culturally diverse societies in the world with 30 percent of Victorians born overseas and representation from over 200 countries (ABS, 2022). This is predicted to expand to 37% by 2030.
In the 10-year period (to 2021/22) people born overseas accounted for 42 percent (132 people) of drowning deaths, and were 2.42 times more likely to fatally drown when comparing rates per head of population and cultural background. Based on visitation frequency to aquatic areas they are 5 x times more likely to drown.
This program addresses the water safety education 'gap' faced by newly arrived Victorians through targeted aquatic education programs that encourage healthy participation around water. Following a 2021/22 pilot and 22/23 repeat of the program funded by the Collier Charitable Fund where 1772 people completed the program, there is a clear need and desire from the community to continue to grow the program.
In addition to the existing beach programs and classroom (theory) sessions, the program will be expanded to include CALD child/youth swimming lessons: 2 x 10 weeks courses for 20 participants each (400 lessons total) to further aid in improving Victorian drowning rates over time.