Aquatic Recreation Network Australia launched to support states and provide national advocacy opportunities

Aiming to represent the interests of the aquatic and recreation industry, the Aquatic Recreation Network Australia (ARNA) has been formed to provide information sharing, networking and collaboration between state peak associations and representatives and deliver project support and advocacy at a national level.

With the former Australian Leisure Facilities Association (ALFA) having ceased operations in 2019, the ARNA networking committee - which meets monthly - was established last year, chaired by Aquatics and Recreation Victoria Chief Executive, Kathy Parton.

Purpose:
The Aquatic Recreation Network Australia (ARNA) is established to provide information sharing, networking, collaboration between state peak associations and representatives and deliver Aquatic and Recreation Industry project support and advocacy at a national level.

Objectives: 
• To provide a forum for cooperation between State Peak Associations and representatives involved in the industry in Australia
• To discuss and advocate on behalf of the National Aquatic and Recreation Industry for positive change to on the national stage.
• To provide input and advice on issues related to Aquatics and Recreation Industry to Government departments and relevant Australian Aquatics and Recreation Industry committees to enhance the National Aquatics and Recreation Industry
• To identify funding sources and opportunities available for advancing the Australian Aquatics and Recreation Industry
• To deliver national projects/initiatives that provide benefits to state bodies

Membership:
The Aquatic Recreation Network Australia Committee comprises representatives from State-wide Aquatics and Recreation peak associations and State representatives including:
• Aquatics and Recreation Victoria
• Life Saving South Australia
• Leisure Institute Western Australia (LIWA) Aquatics
• Aquatic and Recreation Institute NSW (ARI NSW)
• ALFA Qld
• State Representative Northern Territory
• State Representative Tasmania

ALFA was established as the peak representative body for the aquatics, recreation, and leisure facilities industry in Australia. ALFA was an alliance of Regional Bodies, which had been representing the industry for more than 75 years. It formed out of a strong industry need for a national organisation to represent its interests.

ALFA’s vision was to raise the quality, increase usage and improve the customer experience relating to Aquatics and Recreation facilities in Australia. In 2019, ALFA determined to cease its operation as an Incorporated Association and transition into a networking committee.

For more information, contact Kathy Parton of Aquatics and Recreation Victoria on 03 9271 3800, E: kparton@aquaticsandrecreation.org.au

Image courtesy of Zoggs.