Being based near a lot of waterways, water safety is an issue that affects our local communities. As such, we led the South East Sydney Multicultural Water Safety Committee in its early stages and continue to be an active part of the group. We are pleased to see more services working together in similar groups throughout Sydney and the state. We want to make sure that migrants and refugees who come to our shores starting a new life with so much optimism are equipped to safely enjoy the Australian cultural tradition of aquatic recreation.

As a Senior Education Officer, multicultural specialist, my role is to support access for culturally and linguistically diverse communities to learning, in order to strengthen their participation in society and enable their aspirations. I really enjoy being a part of the SES Multicultural Water Safety Committee as Australia is known around the world as having beautiful beaches, and water safety information is essential for newly settled communities to enjoy these natural resources and feel a sense of joy and belonging in their new home.

Working with our diverse communities is integral in creating an inclusive and safe Australia, my role involves providing the space and opportunity for diverse communities to share water safety education and to take the lead in their response to water safety , as well as being a part of the industry. This committee is positive platform where we all share information and ideas. Ultimately, we wish to reach our common goal of keeping our communities safe in our beautiful waterways.

My role at Waverley Council consists in supporting the development and implementation of diversity & inclusion initiatives across Council. I really enjoy being a part of the Water Safety Committee as it allows me to explore additional initiatives that can help the community enjoy all the recreational activities available on the Eastern Sydney beaches safely.

Being a member of this committee supports Surf Life Saving to reach and communicate to at-risk communities in a culturally meaningful and relevant way. This committee provides a positive platform to share, collaborate and consolidate all the work that is being done in this space and we appreciate the time, effort and energy of every member that takes part.

My role is to ensure that the 7km of coastline within the Local Government is patrolled and kept safe 365 days a year. Our team recognised the drowning statistics within CALD communities and decided to be proactive in this area, engaging the community through information sessions, water safety discussions, demonstrations, and swimming participation all with the aim of reducing these statistics and aiming for “No lives lost”. The committee is an excellent place to learn and share ideas in this space.