AUSTSWIM Attends the Launch of the National Drowning Report 2024
As a proud member of the Australian Water Safety Council, AUSTSWIM was honoured to be present at the launch of the National Drowning Report 2024 at Parliament House in Canberra. Represented by Interim CEO Brad Maunsell, AUSTSWIM took the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to water safety and drowning prevention in Australia.
A Grim Reminder: The Toll of Drowning in Australia
The National Drowning Report, a comprehensive annual study jointly undertaken by Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving, serves as a critical resource for understanding the current state of water safety across the nation. The 2024 report revealed several concerning trends, underscoring the ongoing need for rigorous water safety education and initiatives.
According to the report, 323 people drowned in Australian waterways over the past year—a figure that is 16% higher than the 10-year average. This increase is a stark reminder of the risks associated with water activities, and the need for continued vigilance in promoting water safety.
Key findings from the report include:
- While there was a 25% decrease in drownings among children aged 0-4 years, a positive development, this progress was overshadowed by a significant rise in drownings among older Australians.
- The report showed a 44% increase in drowning deaths among those aged 65 and older, making this age group responsible for over a quarter of all drowning fatalities.
- Additionally, 83 individuals who drowned were born overseas, with the majority coming from India, China, and Nepal—a statistic that underscores the importance of culturally tailored water safety education and outreach.
- Swimming pools were identified as particularly dangerous, accounting for 35 drowning deaths over the past year.
AUSTSWIM Interim CEO Brad Maunsell expressed his deep concern over these figures, stating, “323 people drowned in Australian waterways this past year, and that is 323 too many. While we can acknowledge the progress made in reducing drownings among the youngest members of our community, the rising numbers among older Australians are alarming. We must continue to work together to ensure that everyone, regardless of age or background, is equipped with the knowledge and skills to stay safe in and around water.”
Mr Maunsell also took the opportunity to commend the ongoing efforts of Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving, whose research and advocacy have been instrumental in raising awareness and driving improvements in water safety. “This report highlights the importance of the work undertaken by AUSTSWIM accredited swim teachers,” he added, “and I want to thank each and every one of them, along with our trainers, staff, and the broader AUSTSWIM community, for their unwavering commitment to our shared goal: ensuring that everyone has a right to be safe in and around water.”
A Call to Action
The release of the National Drowning Report 2024 serves as a stark reminder that the fight against drowning is far from over. While there have been some positive trends, particularly among young children, the rising fatalities among older adults and people from overseas backgrounds signal areas that require urgent attention.
As AUSTSWIM continues to lead in water safety education and training, the organization remains committed to its mission: ensuring that every person in Australia has the knowledge, skills, and confidence to stay safe in and around water.
For more information about AUSTSWIM and its programs, please visit www.austswim.com.au