This proposal would introduce a new program: Swim and Survive in Schools – A National Water Safety Initiative.  

The program would have the following characteristics:

• The swimming and water safety training would be based on the National Swimming and Water Safety Framework.
• The program would give access to instruction in swimming and water safety equivalent to level 4 of the National Swimming and Water Safety Framework.
• The program would be administered by state and territory education departments (not the Commonwealth).

The Commonwealth would provide all state and territory governments with $55 for each of their year 3 students.  Funding would be indexed each year by the consumer price index.   

This Commonwealth funding commitment would be matched by funding from state and territory governments.   

The proposal would have effect from the start of 2020 school year.