WSNZ On Australian Council for Swimming and Water Safety

2 August 2011
Media Release
For immediate release

Water Safety New Zealand Elected to Australian Council for Teaching Swimming and Water Safety

Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) has been elected as a member of The Australian Council for of Teaching Swimming and Water Safety (AUSTSWIM). This appointment is significant as, while AUSTSWIM works in partnership with a number of international countries in the provision of AUSTSWIM teacher™ training, it is the first time an organisation outside of Australia has been elected to the Council.

AUSTSWIM has for over 30 years been the lead agency for the training of Teachers of Swimming and Water Safety in Australia. WSNZ is responsible for water safety education in New Zealand and has commenced implementation of the AUSTSWIM accredited training and licensing pathway into New Zealand.

This is an important step forward for the water safety sector in New Zealand. AUSTSWIM train and licence over 10,000 teachers every year and produce the highest quality teaching materials, currently in use all over the world.

WSNZ General Manager, Matt Claridge, comments: “Being a part of the AUSTSWIM Council will directly benefit the swim and survive sector in New Zealand. Instructors will have the opportunity to receive high quality training, as well as qualifications recognised across the globe.

“Through our national Sealord Swim For Life initiative WSNZ is working to ensure every New Zealand child has the opportunity to learn swim and survival skills. WSNZ acknowledges the vital role learn to swim and water safety instructors have in providing opportunities for children to develop the necessary skills, and we will continue to work with the industry in New Zealand to constantly improve the skill base and ensure the quality of service they deliver is world class.”

The AUSTSWIM Council has representation from the following organisations;

• Royal Life Saving Society of Australia;
• Surf Life Saving Australia;
• YMCA Australia;
• Australian Leisure Facilities Association;
• Swimming Australia;
• Member representative from each State or Territory Advisory Committee.

AUSTSWIM CEO, Gordon Mallet, explains: “Water Safety New Zealand’s membership of AUSTSWIM was adopted unanimously and with enthusiasm. Benefits will flow on both sides of the Tasman. Quality, consistently trained Teachers of Swimming and Water Safety are the cornerstones of safer children. The combined expert input into this vital area from the aquatic industry in both countries will deliver better courses and resources and ultimately better teachers of swimming and water safety. Portability of this important qualification will also broaden employment opportunities.”

For more information on AUSTSWIM accredited training and licensing in New Zealand visit www.watersafety.org.nz

End

© Scoop Media