City makes a splash for World Drowning Prevention Day

The City of Melbourne has recently marked World Drowning Prevention Day with a renewed commitment to water safety, announcing the return of its free swimming lessons and discounted pool entry for residents this summer.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece joined community members at Melbourne City Baths on July 25 to highlight the importance of swimming skills in preventing drowning tragedies.

“Drowning is a preventable tragedy that claims too many lives each year – especially among children and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds,” Cr Reece said.

“This summer we're bringing back our free beginner swimming lessons for City of Melbourne residents, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to stay safe in and around water.”

Following a successful trial in summer 2024–25, the council will again offer $2 entry to outdoor pools at Carlton Baths and North Melbourne Pool, as well as a five-day intensive swimming program for 600 residents. Lessons will be held at Melbourne City Baths and the soon-to-open Kensington Community Aquatic Recreation Centre, due to launch in September 2025.

Community and City Services Councillor Gladys Liu said the program was about breaking down barriers.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and confident around water. These programs help give more residents access to vital water safety skills,” Cr Liu said.

Last summer, around 400 residents took part in the trial, with 93 per cent reporting improved swimming ability and confidence. More than a third of participants were born overseas – a significant outcome given that 2023–24 recorded the highest number of drownings among Victoria’s multicultural communities on record.

Royal Life Saving Australia’s Summer Drowning Report revealed that almost half of Year 6 students cannot swim 50 metres or tread water for two minutes, underlining the importance of initiatives like this in building life-saving skills.