Welcome to UNSW Water Safety Hub
Whether you're new to swimming, a recreational swimmer, or a professional in the field, dive into our hub to learn essential knowledge and practical tips to ensure your safety in an aquatic environment.
Start your Water Safety Journey Today
UNSW Health Promotions Unit runs a range of programs to help you be safe in the water. Join us for a one day walk, an 8 week learn to swim program or a 4 day beach safety program. Stay up to date with UNSW’s latest water safety programs by clicking the link below!
Coogee to Bondi Walk
Join Cultural Mentors on a half day walking tour along the famous coastal walk from Coogee to Bondi Beach! Meet students from around the world and learn about how to stay safe on Australian beaches. It is free to join but you must register for the event as spaces are limited.
Date: Saturday 17 February 2024
Time: 8:30am - 2:30pm
Learn to Swim Program
The Learn to Swim program includes 8 x 1-hour sessions with a qualified instructor to work on your swimming skills. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about water safety, meet new friends and learn life skills that will improve your well-being
Beach Ocean Safe Program
If you want to feel more confident in the water, meet new people and learn about Australian beach culture then join us for this 4-week program where you'll gain the skills you need to stay safe while enjoying Sydney's incredible beaches.
UNSW Swimming Safe Grant
Are you interested in becoming a swimming instructor, surf life saver or a water safety ambassador? The Swimming Safe Grant will help you achieve your goal with SIX months of FREE swimming lessons!
Learn more about Australia's waterways
Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol and drugs have contributed to 315 coastal drowning deaths in the last 15 years. Learn about the dangers of consuming alcohol around the water.
Beaches
The beach is a dynamic, ever-changing environment. Although it can be fun, it can also be unpredictable and dangerous to people who are unaware of the hazards.
Boating & Watercraft
In 2021/2022, 44 people died from drowning while boating, making it the second leading activity prior to drowning in Australia. Learn about the dangers and how to stay safe.
Lakes and Rivers
Inland waterways, such as rivers and lakes, are the leading location for drowning in Australia. Learn how to stay safe.
Coastal Rocks
Some of the most hazardous activities leading to drowning involve rocky coasts. Learn about the dangers and how to stay safe.
Resources
SLS NSW Beach and Coastal Safety Resource Hub
Visit Surf Life Saving NSW’s Beach Safety hub, your go-to place for information on rips, waves and the ocean.
Sun Safety
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Learn about sun safety from the experts at Cancer Council.
Opportunities for more advanced swimmers
UNSW Fitness and Aquatic Centre
Want to find out more about swimming lessons, recreational swimming or competitive swimming, visit the UNSW FAC.
Coogee Ocean Events
Coogee Surf Life Saving Club runs a number of swimming events including the Island Challenge and Run Swim Aquathlon.
Surf Lifesaving NSW
Want to become a surf lifesaver in Australia? Get in touch with SLSNSW or your local surf life saving club to find out more.
Partners
UNSW Health Promotions Unit would like to acknowledge the contributions made by the UNSW Beach Safety Research Group, a multidisciplinary team of researchers and practitioners dedicated to keeping people safe at the beach.
We would also like to acknowledge Coogee Surf Life Saving Club and Surf Life Saving NSW for their ongoing collaboration in keeping UNSW students safe in the water.
