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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN

NEW SOUTH WALES

WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013-2015

Action Plan Update December 2013

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to rock fishing

Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced Key Priority: Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

5 Develop state response to rock fishing safety NSW Police Force (NSWPF) as chair of Safer Coastal Waters Sub-Committeze Develop the Government’s response to recommendations of the “Research Review of Rock Fishing Safety in NSW”. Implement the Government’s response once finalised.

Progress Report, inc lead agencies, timelines and status

The response to the recommendations of the “Research Review of Rock Fishing Safety in NSW” was finalised and submitted to the Minister. Analysis of the outcomes of consultation on the Wearing of Lifejackets by Rock Fishers is underway. A final report is being developed for consideration by the Minister/Government in early 2014.

Key Priority: Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

5 Refine and continue the NSW rock fishing education and awareness program NSWPF as chair of Safer Coastal Waters Sub-Committee Refined coordinated program implemented by 2013-14.


Rock fishing safety sub plan to be developed by Safer Coastal Waters Sub Committee consistent with the Water Safety Strategy and encompass all existing and/or new identified education programs.


7 Implement culturally and linguistically diverse and Aboriginal communities’ rock fishing safety workshops Refined coordinated program implemented by 2013-14. DPI Refine and expand using rock fishing educators and targeted media. Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA), DPI, Ministry for Police and Emergency Services (MPES). Maintain the culturally and linguistically diverse and Aboriginal communities’ rock fishing safety workshops as part of the broader NSW rock fishing education and awareness program.


Fishing safety education programs with rock fishing elements are being implemented by a range of partners including the Department of Primary Industries, the Recreational Fishing Alliance and Surf Life Saving NSW. This includes work proposed by the Recreational Fishing Alliance related to rock fishing educators and targeted media for CALD communities. Fourteen workshops for Aboriginal communities and 7 CALD community workshops were held in 2013.


7 Implement culturally and linguistically diverse rock fishing safety awareness campaign DPI Refine and expand using rock fishing educators and targeted media. Recognise and promote www.safefishing.com.au as a centralised portal for safety information on fishing.

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http://www.safefishing.com.au/

NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced RFA, SLSNSW, DPI, MPES. Expand the culturally and linguistically diverse communities’ rock fishing safety awareness campaign as part of the

broader NSW rock fishing education and awareness program using rock fishing educators and targeted media. Progress Report, inc lead agencies, timelines and status

The website www.safefishing.com.au has been recognised on the water safety website as the centralised portal for safety information on fishing. This will continue in all publications. RFA has been funded under the Water Safety Black Spots Fund to expand the culturally and linguistically diverse communities’ rock fishing safety awareness campaign using rock fishing educators and targeted media. Seven CALD community workshops were held by the Department of Primary Industries and the Recreational Fishing Alliance in 2013.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to boating and water safety generally


9 Support and deliver Marine13 - an international boating conference with a strong focus on safety. Maritime Management Centre (MMC), Transport for NSW MMC to support the Boating Industries Alliance Australia in delivering an international boating conference, with a dedicated Boating Safety stream.


Marine13 was held in Sydney in April 2013. Outcomes can be found at: http://marine13.com The conference had a strong water safety theme including the following:

• Risk management in boating • Marine safety communications • Marine Rescue: A volunteer story • Lifejackets • Online boating education • Ocean weather forecasting • Safety Systems: experiences and lessons to be learned • Personal responsibility - PWC case study


5 Promote lifejacket wear when boating MMC MMC, as Chair of the Australian Recreational Boating Safety Committee (ARBSC) and Chair of the Australia and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG) to deliver a lifejacket DVD and education package for use across Trans Tasman jurisdictions. Primary support from Maritime (RMS).


MMC chaired a meeting of ANZSBEG in September 2013. The primary subject of discussion was promotion of lifejacket awareness and wear. It was noted that an ANZSBEG lifejacket education video has been completed and distributed across the membership. The video was delivered as a DVD and online. MMC led this project with Tasmania and phase one is complete. Phase two is the distribution of the product to other stakeholders and this work will continue until December 2014.


5 Promote safe and responsible boating in non-powered craft (canoes, kayaks etc) MMC MMC, as Chair of the Australian Recreational Boating Safety Committee (ARBSC) and Chair of the Australia and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG) to deliver a Paddle Safe DVD and education package for use across Trans Tasman jurisdictions.

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http://marine13.com/

NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced Progress Report, inc lead agencies, timelines and status

MMC led the development and production of an educational package on safe paddling. MMC reported to ANZSBEG that the package is complete and includes a DVD, flyer, behaviour sticker and online content. Distribution across the membership was completed by September 2013. The next phase of the project is to engage key retailers, both marine and non-marine, to encourage extension and reach of the program by 1 Jul 2014.


5 Lifejacket public awareness campaign MMC Continue the major public awareness campaign to increase the rate of wearing lifejackets when boating.


MMC collaborated with partner business units within Transport for NSW to prepare and achieve Government approval for a major lifejacket advertising campaign for the 2013-14 boating season. The Government approved the campaign (Lifejacket – Wear It) in October 2013. The advertising campaign commenced on radio on 3 November 2013 with television and other supporting media channels commencing on 10 November.


5 Lifejacket Wear It (supply and promotion) Initiative MMC A Government initiated, industry led project to deliver innovative programs aimed at increasing the rate of wearing lifejackets when boating. Registrations of Interest were announced in August 2012; Requests for Proposals by June 2013. Program delivery in late 2013.


MMC collaborated with partner business units within Transport for NSW to prepare, deliver and complete two tenders in 2013. One tender was for the delivery of a mobile lifejackets promotional and retail vehicle to operate state-wide over the 2013-14 and 2014-15 boating seasons. The second tender was for the supply of 4,000 new generation lifejackets for use by Transport for NSW in various promotional activities. The projects commenced as part of the Lifejacket – Wear It campaign in late November 2013.


1 NSW Boating Safety Day MMC Maritime (RMS) to lead in partnership with MAC, Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW), Boating Industry Association (BIA), Yachting NSW, Paddle NSW etc., an annual event at the start of the boating season in October to promote safety awareness among the boating community. Staged state-wide across popular waterways and at high-traffic boat ramps to reach optimal number of boaters. Consider options to expand to “NSW water safety day”.

Progress Report, inc MMC collaborated with a number of marine safety partners to stage a Boating Safety Day on 24 November 2013 at Bonnie Vale, Port Hacking. The

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced lead agencies, timelines and status

day featured a variety of activities including safety displays and exhibitions, as well as free-try boating activities. The 2013 Boating Safety Day was a test event with a view to lessons learnt informing an expanded day delivered in multiple locations from 2014.


9 Boating driver licensing MMC Maritime (RMS) to maintain an ongoing program of Boat and Personal Watercraft licensing which includes compulsory safety education and practical boating experience prior to being able to sit for a licence test. Maritime (RMS) to work with MMC to monitor, review and improve the licence system, which includes a network of Registered Training Organisation (RTOs), where appropriate.


MMC continues to work with RMS in monitoring the licence system and work on improvements to the RTO system. A new boating safety course to be delivered by RTOs is in development and is expected to be available for the 2014-15 boating season.


2 Marine Safety Act MMC Monitor, review and amend as required to ensure legislation reflects support for a culture of safe and responsible boating.


The MMC is currently reviewing the Marine Safety Act. A discussion paper will be released for public comment in February 2014. The final report on the outcome of the review will be provided to the Minister for Roads and Ports by 30 June 2014.


4 Boating Safety MMC Through its lead role and support for the Australian Recreational Boating Safety Council (ARBSC) and the Australia and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG), MMC will monitor, review and deliver nationwide boating safety initiatives and programs.


MMC holds the Chair function of both the ARBSC and the ANZSBEG. Work is currently underway to enhance the distribution of safety materials relating to lifejackets and paddle craft across member jurisdictions. This work is expected to continue through December 2014. The ANZSBEG is a member of the Marine15 Organising Committee and is working to deliver a Boating Safety program, with a strong emphasis on lifejackets – for this major event which is likely to be held in Queensland.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to swimming


5 Improved safety of divers, spearfishers and ocean swimmers MMC Consideration of specific comments in the “Preventing Incidents Involving Divers and Ocean Swimmers” discussion paper and subsequent campaigns. Include consideration of Queensland’s legislative approach and possible increased voluntary use of flags and fluoro caps while diving, spearfishing or ocean swimming.


MMC has collaborated with the spear fishing community, RMS and Fisheries to develop a Dive in the Water safety strategy. This strategy is expected to be ready for implementation in January 2014.


2 Amendments to the Swimming Pools Act DLG Work with stakeholders to implement legislation to strengthen compliance with pool barrier standards. Work with stakeholders to promote public awareness about pool barrier requirements in NSW. Monitor and review legislative amendments by 2018.


The online swimming pool register at www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au) allows backyard pool and spa owners to register their pools. The register includes a series of pool barrier inspection checklists that reflect requirements relevant to the age of the pool and its location. Local councils and authorised private certifiers will access the register to record pool barrier inspections and issue compliance certificates. Pool barrier inspections are mandatory for tourist and visitor accommodation and multi-occupancy dwellings from 20 October 2013. All properties for sale or lease with a pool after 29 April 2014 are required to have a pool compliance certificate before sale or lease can take place. NSW Royal Life Saving was engaged by DLG to promote awareness of the legislative changes as part of their ‘Be Pool Safe’ campaign. The campaign has provided resources directly to councils and media in English and 15 community languages.


9 Sport and Recreation Swim and Survive Learn to Swim Program Sport and Recreation Continue to conduct Swim and Survive courses in regional and rural NSW.


Sport and Recreation will conduct the Swim and Survive Program in over 120 pools in regional and rural NSW during 2013-14.

Key Priority: Strategy for action:

9 School aged children receive swimming, water safety and rescue skills education

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http://www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au/

NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

MPES Stakeholder groups to work with all non-government/DEC learn-to-swim programs/organisations to enhance curriculum so that alignment of effective water safety and lifesaving education programs are being delivered to school aged children. Continue initiatives to validate and support curriculum to ensure children have access to swimming, water safety and rescue skills education. Continue to provide access and deliver the DEC School Swimming Scheme – learn to swim and water safety program for Government Schools. Continue to provide teacher professional learning – AUSTSWIM, ASCTA, SWIM Australia and APOLA SSSA in-service courses. Promote other Learn to Swim / Aquatics programs e.g. Swim & survive. AUSTSWIM MATES program for carers of persons with disabilities etc MMC and Maritime (RMS) supporting boating safety programs through the Marine Studies component of the High School curriculum. Consult with non-government schools.


SLSNSW has presented at NSW AUSTSWIM conferences and worked with them in the development of their resources for swimming teachers. SLSNSW has also commenced the delivery of the ‘Surf School’ project through the Water Safety Black Spots Fund to Year 9 students in Western Sydney. The nationally aligned surf education course was developed and presented to 919 students in Western Sydney. SLSNSW also conducted a number of surf awareness and community education programs targeted towards school children across the Hunter, Central Coast and South Coasts. RLSNSW awards over 100,000 Swim and Survive certificates to children annually through NSW aquatic centres and schools. The teaching resources in the Water Smart education toolkit outlines appropriate outcomes and have taken into consideration the new Australian National Curriculum for years up to year 10. The resources are available in PDF or interactive whiteboard format for teachers. The Swim Safe Swim Sober program is an innovative online educational experience for secondary school students. The program draws upon a broad range of alcohol issues and utilises aquatic themes to explore risk-taking behaviour, resilience, personal attitudes and beliefs, personal relationships, refusal skills, contingency planning and ethical decision making. The RLSNSW river safety program developed to support the State 3 education curriculum (years 5 and 6) identifies a range of river/open water dangers and reinforces appropriate behaviours. The river safety program will commence in 2014. It is an online resource and available free to all NSW primary schools. AUSTSWIM continued the development of appropriate training for school teachers in collaboration with the Department of Education and Communities. AUSTSWIM metropolitan and regional conferences provide professional development to teachers. AUSTSWIM’s MATE workshops provide community awareness, engagement and encouragement in aquatic activity.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to signage


1 Development of consistent messages and signage among water safety organisations

MPES Consistent messages and signage are developed with contribution from all agencies and published on all websites and media.


WSAC sub group established in August 2013 to commence planning. Chaired by MPES with representatives from DEC, SLSNSW, Surf Educators Australia, and APOLA.


1 Encourage use of consistent, effective water safety signage and public rescue equipment DLG Reinforce Water Safety Practice Note for Local Councils. Work with stakeholders to consider recommendations from Aquatic Risk Assessment project (WSBSF year 1). Work with stakeholders, advocating for a consistent position in relation to water safety signage (location, style, content) to be considered by 2016. Work with stakeholders to advocate Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) and Australian Water Safety Signage Standard. Work with stakeholders to review suitability of, and if necessary update, the Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual to ensure compliant Australian Standards are included.


An updated Water Safety Practice Note has been distributed reflecting generic skill sets for water safety staff. It is intended that remaining actions will commence in 2014, subject to agreement in relation to messaging and signage as above. SLSNSW is finalising the next edition of the National Aquatic Recreational Signage Style Manual.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to education and public awareness


6 Improve quality and quantity of waterway safety education for rural and remote areas and rural coastal areas.

MPES Key safety messaging streamlined and consistent by end of 2013. Water safety education and skills program access increased in both non-school and school based programs. Examples of some education programs to be implemented by Council members include:

• SLSNSW Beach to Bush Program • SLSNSW ‘Surf Ed’ Program • RLSNSW Water Smart Program RLSNSW Swim and Survive Program RLSNSW River Safety Program • RLSNSW Swim Safe Swim Sober program • RLSNSW Bronze Rescue program implemented.

Work with stakeholders to establish collaborative support for a “safe aquatic community” model throughout regional and remote NSW. Maritime (RMS) to deliver inland boating safety education and compliance programs.


The SLSNSW Beach to Bush program was delivered to 9,133 students across 41 schools in the 2012-13 season. The RLSNSW river safety program was developed to support the State 3 education curriculum (years 5 and 6) and identifies a range of river/open water dangers and reinforces appropriate behaviours. The river safety program will commence in 2014. It is an online resource and available free to all NSW primary schools. AUSTSWIM increased access to appropriately trained teachers for rural and remote areas with the provision of training for indigenous teachers. Access was also improved to swimming lessons and water safety education for indigenous communities. The AUSTSWIM annual regional conference provides teachers with up to date knowledge and skills.


6 Promote safe and responsibility practices on farms and regional properties.

DPI Implement the RLSNSW Keep Watch at Farms public awareness initiative.


RLSNSW developed a resource called Keep Watch at Farms to raise awareness of risks associated with the 0-5 year age group on farms and regional properties.

Key Priority: 6

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

Develop and implement a River Safety awareness program

DPI Work with RLSNSW and MMC to implement state wide river safety awareness program.


The RLSNSW river safety program was developed to support the State 3 education curriculum (years 5 and 6) and identifies a range of river/open water dangers and reinforces appropriate behaviours. The river safety program will commence in 2014. It is an online resource and available free to all NSW primary schools.


6 Develop, implement and align rip current awareness programs

DLG Work with stakeholders to align implementation of annual Rip Current Awareness Days between SLS and local councils. Promote educational programs run by Surf Educators International and APOLA. Promote AUSTSWIM rip awareness programs run in swim centres with no access to beaches. Promote online information sites for safety information on rip awareness and beach safety.


DLG will commence this work in 2014. SLSNSW runs education programs in relation to rip awareness. SLSNSW also runs campaigns and regularly promotes water safety messages around rip awareness and distributes resources to schools, universities and visitor information centres. AUSTSWIM, in conjunction with Surf Life Saving Australia and SLSNSW, will develop a rip current awareness teachers guide to identify the key messages for swimming and water safety teachers. Rip current awareness workshops, in collaboration with u-Rippa, allow children to experience the effects of currents in a controlled environment.


6 Expansion of surf lifesaving patrols/surveillance capacity through improving technologies and services MPES All identified high-risk locations patrolled by lifesavers/lifeguards during identified high-risk periods (averaged). Utilisation of more advanced equipment, information technology and research. Improved technologies researched and considered.


WSAC considered the findings of SLSNSW’s Project Blueprint: Tackling the Top Ten: Summary of Year One Progress on Coastal Risk Assessment SLSNSW members patrol 129 beaches each year between September and April with additional support services called upon which are co-ordinated through the state-wide radio network SurfCom. 106 active Branch Duty Officers and 9 State Duty Officers are in place to co-ordinated responses in high risk periods. The Central Coast Branch has implemented a surveillance camera at the Entrance Channel, a black spot. Year one of Program Blueprint has been completed for 10 Local Government Areas.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced Key Priority: Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

7 Implement a national public awareness campaign targeting 55+

MPES NSW agency participation in national campaign. RLSNSW Grey Medallion program and public awareness initiative implemented. Work with stakeholder groups to target public awareness campaigns utilising media and aged care networks as well as publications associated with the 55+ age group.


The RLSNSW Grey Medallion initiative has been implemented in 50 aquatic facilities across NSW. A further 50 programs are currently being scheduled for 2014. The second phase will be filmed to capture attitudes and lifestyle choices of the 55+ age group to better understand aquatic behaviour and recreational pursuits.


7 Foster more inclusive aquatic venues and associated workforces to meet needs of 55+ Sport and Recreation Industry and workforce development programs implemented and monitored.


Sport and Recreation will commence this project in 2014.


7 Develop and maintain a centralised public safety program through coastal accommodation providers and tourism MPES Work with SLSNSW, APOLA, and SEI to develop a standardised beach/surf safety education program implemented in 75% of coastal accommodation providers located within 1km of the coast and with greater than 50 persons occupancy by 2018. Standardised surf/beach safety information available at all city/regional airports, information kiosks. Destination NSW and tourism industry engaged.


WSAC will consider if further work is required to provide standardised information to accommodation providers and tourism agencies. SLSNSW promotes beachsafe, the free app and website which provides real-time beach information and water safety information in 72 languages. The South Coast Branch with support from Holiday Heaven, funded 3,000 safety leaflets and ‘swim between the flags’ notices for distribution in Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven City Tourist Information Centres and caravan parks.


7 Standardise water safety education for use by newly arrived communities

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MPES Target language specific water safety programs to transient and temporary workforces within a specific location. Approaches address specific needs and characteristics. Consider key stakeholders to develop standardised water safety information (water safety kit) into pre-embarkation information sessions for NSW residents under the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Australian Cultural Orientation Program. Also consider distribution to agencies supporting settlement for example, Adult Migrant English Program centres and Settlement Services International. 25% increase in participation in volunteer rescue organisations by people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds by 2020. Promote AUSTSWIM research and program development to address water safety needs for new arrivals.


WSAC sub group established in August 2013 to commence planning. Chaired by MPES with representatives from DEC, SLSNSW, Surf Educators Australia, and APOLA. AUSTSWIM has undertaken research into the training needs of CALD communities and will release a report in 2014. AUSTSWIM has translated water safety resource materials into a number of other languages.


7 Monitor and expand interventions targeted at reducing drowning in tourists and international students MPES SLSNSW to conduct community education at university open days. Standardised beach safety information within:

• international student induction; • in-flight water safety messaging; • airport signage.

Coastal accommodation network program. Surfers Rescue 24/7 program developed by Surfing NSW to strengthen surfers capability to assist in rescues, especially at unpatrolled beaches.


SLSNSW water safety information is translated in 72 languages through the beachsafe website and app which provides real time beach safety information and conditions for over 12,000 Australian beaches. RLSNSW has received funding under the Water Safety Black Spots Fund for an international student initative. The program will be a partnership with Macquarie University and the University of New England. Surfing NSW will advertise the Surfers Rescue 24/7 program on the Coastalwatch website which includes 42 camera locations across NSW to monitor conditions. A brochure is now available on the benefits of the program. Up to 300 people have completed the Surfers Rescue 24/7 with Surfers Rescue Instructors and course participants involved in rescues in late 2013.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced Key Priority: Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

7 Implement a national public awareness initiative for 0-5 years age group focusing on key and relevant environments

MPES Relevant state based agencies (e.g. AUSTSWIM, SWIM Australia, ASCTA) to implement national awareness initiative, including RLS to implement:

• RLSNSW Keep Watch program; • RLSNSW Keep Watch @ Bath time; • RLSNSW Keep Watch @ Farms; • RLSNSW Keep Watch Life Stages.

Promote RLS website www.homepoolsafety.com.au to provide water safety information to home pool owners. Utilise new technological options to engage families and carers of young children. For example, RLS has developed an App on iTunes (home pool checklist).


RLSNSW has developed a range of resources targeting carers of the 0-5 years age group in regard to bath time, farms and life stages.


7 Implement a state based public awareness program for the aquatic industry on active supervision of small children MPES RLSNSW Keep Watch @ Public Pool program implemented across NSW Aquatic industry.


RLSNSW provided 300 aquatic facilities with a range of resources to support active supervision of small children in public swimming pools. RLSNSW surveyed 250 facilities to ascertain current understandings and supervision methodologies.


7 Implement culturally and linguistically diverse swimming and water safety activities and responses

MPES RLSNSW Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Community Lifesaver program implemented across networks. Surfers Rescue 24/7 program developed by Surfing NSW to strengthen surfers capability to assist in rescues, especially at unpatrolled beaches.


SLSNSW worked in partnership with Surfing NSW to deliver the accredited CPR component of the Surfers Rescue training course and delivered 22 courses with 479 people achieving a national recognised unit of competency to perform CPR. Through the Surfers Rescue 24/7 program, more than 45 rescues were recorded in varied remote locations.

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http://www.homepoolsafety.com.au/

NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced

RLSNSW has developed an initiative to directly engage at risk CALD adult communities (Asian and African) in Western Sydney with a 10 week learn to swim and education program. 500 participants will be provided with a free CPR course and a range of water safety information sessions post swimming lessons. The initiative will be filmed to showcase achievement and for placement on social media sites and distribution to CALD networks and community centres to activity promote the importance of participation in swimming and water safety programs.


7 Implement Indigenous Swimming and water safety leadership and training initiatives. MPES Expand the RLSNSW Indigenous Leadership program providing swimming, water safety and lifesaving skills to Indigenous youth in regional and remote NSW. Promote the AUSTSWIM program for training presenters to deliver indigenous specific training for teachers that supports course completion and fosters employment outcomes in learn to swim in their communities.


For the second year, the Central Coast Branch of SLSNSW ran an indigenous community program aimed at providing pathways for local indigenous youth into surf life saving. In 2013 the program targets the northern tip of the Central Coasty with 41 participants attending a one day surf education day at Toowoon Bay Beach. Indigenous programs were held at Birubi Point, Freshwater, Manly and Bondi Surf Life Saving Clubs. South Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club held a Beach to Bush program for 40 indigenous children and 8 elders. RLSNSW engaged 150 indigenous children across 10 strategic locations and provided a free learn to swim experience through involved water safety, survival and swimming components. In addition, health and water safety resources were developed for use within the program and now available to all public swimming pools across NSW.


9 Implement healthy-activity based programs that encourage education and skills enhancement

MPES SLSNSW recruitment and engagement programs for members to join the lifesaving movement enhanced. Coastal Council programs including Ocean Safety Surfer Award (OSSA) for school and university students. Beach Safety Awareness (BSA) for new immigrants supported. RLSNSW Community Lifesaver Ambassador initiative implemented to broaden network of instructors and facilitators of water safety skills and knowledge. Availability of programs and participation increase.


SLSNSW recruitment campaigns include an initiative, Surf Club Open Day, in which up to 77 clubs participate. An online member induction will be available on the SLSNSW website and members portal with a focus on showcasing the pathways available and benefits of being involved in surf life saving. RLSNSW implemented the Community Lifesaver Champion program and engaged 150 schools in regional and remove locations which were provided with a range of resources to support a water safety program.

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AUSTSWIM continued delivery of the MATE workshops which encourages the health and wellness benefits associated with aquatic participation and activity.

Actions relating to alcohol and other drugs


8 Develop programs that develop skills, knowledge and modification of behaviour by young people

MPES Programs to be implemented in NSW include:

• SLSNSW 18-25 Development Networking Program – focus on leadership, social skills, community and looking out for others. • RLSNSW Swim Safe Swim Sober initiative to be implemented in education sector. • RLSNSW Swim Safe Swim Sober community awareness initiative.


SLSNSW held a Youth Opportunity Makers Workshop in May 2013 aimed at 15-17 year olds looking to develop leadership and team building skills. Young people are able to obtain basic knowledge of surf awareness in order to be able to safely enjoy surf activities through the Surf Survival Certificate (minimum 12 years of age) and receive basic patrolling knowledge through the Surf Rescue Certificate (minimum 13 years). A number of branches held junior development camps, rookie programs and youth leadership programs. The RLSNSW Swim Safe Swim Sober program is an innovative online educational experience for secondary school students. The program draws upon a broad range of alcohol issues and utilises aquatic themes to explore risk-taking behaviour, resilience, personal attitudes and beliefs, personal relationships, refusal skills, contingency planning and ethical decision making.


8 Create and implement a State drug and alcohol drowning reduction strategy

MPES NSW agency participation in strategy development. Relationships built with other sectors, such as MMC, with common problems. ‘Good sports program’ implemented in every surf lifesaving club.


To be progressed via Safer Coastal Waters Sub-Committee with additional input from Surfing NSW. Initial discussion at 27 August 2013 Sub-Committee meeting. Other stakeholders will be invited to participate, once Sub-Committee has agreed on specific projects to progress. SLSNSW reports that there are 73 accredited ‘good sports’ Surf Life Saving Clubs.

Key Priority: 8

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions and Timelines:

Investigate the role of alcohol in drowning, including social and cultural factors and develop programs to target NSWPF Investigate access to research opportunities to research alcohol and drug themes and contribute to the design, development, and evaluation of interventions. Target schoolies locations / groups / accommodation providers through a coordinated joint-effort annually. Targeted messages, mediums and stakeholder groups (including alcohol and entertainment industries) around high-risk times (Christmas/New Year/Australia Day) through a coordinated joint-effort annually.


To be progressed via Safer Coastal Waters Sub-Committee with additional input from Surfing NSW. Other stakeholders will be invited to participate, once Sub-Committee has agreed on specific projects to progress.


8 Collaborate with recreational boating and fishing groups, alcohol related advocacy groups and government to build effective policy MPES MPES to work with MMC, Maritime (RMS) and others, to review the existing Go Easy campaign for boaters and implement strategies that encourage collaboration among multiple stakeholders and result in effective policy and interventions. NSW agencies collaborate on policy development.


MPES will consider the existing Go Easy campaign and consider combining the resources to create and implement a state-wide drug and alcohol drowning reduction strategy.


8 Go Easy re: alcohol and boating MMC MMC, as Chair of the Australian Recreational Boating Safety Committee (ARBSC) and Chair of the Australia and New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG), to deliver a Go Easy alcohol campaign across the Trans-Tasman membership by December 2013. Primary support from Maritime (RMS) and MAC.


MMC has circulated Go Easy campaign materials to all trans-Tasman regulatory jurisdictions for further distribution. Further refinement of messages is underway with the next phase of information to be circulated across the membership by February 2014.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to partnerships and promotion


1 Maintenance of www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au MPES Established in Dec 2011. Ongoing maintenance and update links with all relevant water safety websites.


The water safety website was developed in December 2011 as the water safety portal for the NSW Government. It is an accessible website and encourages linkages with WSAC member agencies and information sharing. Archived documents are kept by the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services. It is updated regularly based on input from the WSAC members, including the WSAC Communiqués and media links. In June 2013 the website was linked to the Register Your Pool campaign. In December 2013, links were included to the MMC lifejacket advertising campaign.


1 Promote all internet and social media based information via the website

MPES Promote and link websites as portals for information on water safety, including but not limited to: www.beachsafe.org.au www.lifejacketwearit.com.au www.safefishing.com.au www.seaaustralia.com.au www.surfingnsw.com.au www.royallifesaving.com.au Include all government sites relevant to water safety. Disseminate all water safety messages through social media sites, for example NSWPF Eyewatch pages.


The water safety website encourages linkages with WSAC member agencies and shared information. WSAC members provide the web addresses for their own sites as the expert information on water safety. Links are also established with the National Water Safety Council. The maintenance of appropriate website links is an ongoing project.

Key Priority: Strategy for action: WSAC Liaison: Agencies, Actions

3 Projects funded under the WSBSF are published on the water safety website

MPES Projects funded under the WSBSF are summarised and published on the website, including any ultimate actions that may arise.

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http://www.beachsafe.org.au/

http://www.lifejacketwearit.com.au/


http://www.seaaustralia.com.au/

http://www.surfingnsw.com.au/

http://www.royallifesaving.com.au/

NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Colour code: Commenced Completed Not yet commenced and Timelines:

Stakeholders are consulted about the outcome of projects.


The water safety website is the water safety portal for the NSW Government. The Government is committed to transparent allocation of Fund monies. The allocations for each year are included under the WSBSF home page and updated each year. Additional actions that arise from projects are published as links to the project managers own website. Complete for 2011-12 Complete for 2012-13 Pending for 2013-14 Pending for 2014-15


1 Water Safety Advisory Council (WSAC) MPES Meetings three to four times a year. Advise the Minister on the Water Safety Black Spots Fund. Development of the NSW Water Safety Strategy to 2015.


The WSAC is comprised of experts, both Government and non-Government in various fields of water safety; boating, fishing, swimming, surf, inland waterways, swimming pools, training, education, policy and legislation. Their task is to advise the NSW Government on relevant water safety matters; and ensure a strategic approach to water safety in NSW assists in reducing the number of drowning deaths each year. In 2011 the WSAC was given additional duties. The WSAC is assisting the Minister to allocate the WSBSF over four years and developed the NSW Water Safety Strategy. The NSW Water Safety Strategy 2013-15 was approved by the Government in June 2013. The WSAC met in November 2011, June 2012, October 2012, December 2012, March 2013, July 2013, November 2013 Completed for 2011-12 Completed for 2012-13 Pending for 2013-14 Pending for 2014-15


3 Maintain the Water Safety Black Spots Fund (WSBSF)

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MPES The fund involves $8 million over four years until 2014-15. The WSAC makes recommendations to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services based on criteria to address black spots. Funding is allocated on a year to year basis.


The object of the WSBSF is to reduce the rate of drowning deaths in NSW. To do this the Fund supports water safety initiatives that focus on known black spot locations; address high risk populations; or address high risk activities. Black Spots include:

• High risk geographic location for drowning or near drowning;

• High risk population group for drowning or near drowning (for example persons with a disability); or

• High risk activity for drowning or near drowning (for example rock fishing). Completed for 2011-12. A full list of project receiving funding can be found on the water safety website. Completed for 2012-13. A full list of project receiving funding can be found on the water safety website. New guidelines released July 2013. 2013-14 Funding agreements will be finalised by the end of the 2013 calendar year.

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NEW SOUTH WALES WATER SAFETY STRATEGY 2013 -15 ACTION PLAN Actions relating to emergency response


6 Emergency notification enhanced in rural and remote areas

MPES and NSWPF Exploration of a state-wide Emergency Access Numbering system development in conjunction with RLS Aquatic Location Audit project. Consultation with NSW Lands and Property Information on the “Emergency Marker Proposal” for an emergency marker scheme similar to Victoria, to assist ‘lost‘ individuals and emergency services. The aim is to enable key inland and coastal waterways to be appropriately GPS logged and assigned specific Emergency Access Number – CAD aligned to NSW Police Force, Ambulance NSW and Fire & Rescue NSW. Triple Zero awareness improved.


Lands and Property Information (LPI) is preparing a business case to seek funding for an emergency marker system in NSW similar to that introduced in Victoria. It can currently be difficult to locate people where there are no formal addresses, or obvious identifiable features that could aid in identifying their location. Immediate identification of locations though means of a unique emergency marker/ identifier can save valuable time locating a caller. The LPI project does not have a specific water safety focus. Key WSAC stakeholders involved in project are MPES, DPI and SLSNSW.


6 Review the existing state-wide preventative warning system (established 2010) to determine any areas for improvement to warnings on dangerous surf conditions

NSWPF Scope possible alignment process to be established between NSW Police Force, SLSNSW, Maritime (RMS), APOLA, coastal Councils and Recreational Fishing Alliance. Review of proactive public warning systems and any amendments implemented and maintained. Existing Dangerous Surf Warning system reviewed including Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) thresholds.


NSWPF Marine Area Command to lead work in liaison with MPES and SLSNSW. Through Project Blueprint, SLSNSW has collected information that can be incorporated into a NSW Emergency Marker System.


9 New Marine Rescue Units MPES MRNSW to progressively open new units on inland waterways commencing with Lake Jindabyne, Lake Eucumbene and the Murray River.


Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes Unit has been established and is based at Jindabyne and Lake Eucumbene. The unit has two vessels and trailers and vehicle for logistics and towing. Provisional accreditation was granted by the Minister. A Unit has been established at Moama. It has provisional accreditation status and has been issued with a vessel and trailer for training purpose with a new purpose built vessel currently under construction.

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Discussions are currently underway in relation to securing appropriate sites to build appropriate accommodation for each unit.


6 Regional and Rural Resources MPES Marine Rescue NSW and Maritime (RMS) are both putting additional units and resources in regional areas.


MMC has collaborated with RMS to commence a recruitment program to recruit six additional Boating Safety Officers as well as 18 additional Boating Education Officers to be stationed across regional NSW. The Boating Safety Officers will provide a significant boost to the compliance effort on state waters, especially regarding the zero tolerance approach to lifejackets laws from December 2013. The Boating Education Officers are expected to start deployment from December 2013 with their primary role to promote awareness of safe and responsible boating to the community at access points, on the water, at events and in schools. It is expected that all positions will be filled and active by mid March 2013.

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