New $125 million lifesaving partnership for Queensland

The Queensland Government is partnering with Surf Life Saving Queensland through a record $125 million 10-year service agreement aimed at helping to continue the vital service and help save lives on Queensland beaches.

The investment in Surf Life Saving Queensland is the biggest in the nation and builds on the current four-year $30 million commitment delivered by the Queensland Government from 2020, due to conclude at the end of this financial year.

The commitment includes funding for a 10-year service level agreement which will commence in the 2024/25 financial year, and an immediate boost to infrastructure and equipment for every surf club in the state.

Gerard O’Brien, President of Surf Life Saving Queensland, shared “Surf Life Saving Queensland is proud of our long history protecting Queensland beaches and serving the community.

“This long-term funding agreement will ensure our dedicated lifesavers can continue to do what they do best – save lives.

“Our mission is zero preventable deaths in Queensland public waters and this funding will ensure we can invest in our members, our equipment and our lifesaving capability so we can achieve this mission.

“It is dedicated Queenslanders who patrol our beaches and work tirelessly to keep the community safe. This funding is an investment in them and an acknowledgement of the valuable service they provide to Queensland.”

More than 35,000 Queenslanders are volunteer members of a surf lifesaving club and more than 462,000 are a member of an affiliated supporters club.

It’s hoped the boost will help grow volunteer and club numbers even further.

$113 million over 10 years for the Service Agreement will provide certainty and to support SLSQ’s long-term plans, including increasing membership, and integrating with the Government Wireless Network.

The remaining $12 million capital boost will be delivered to Surf Life Saving Queensland this financial year, so they can commence the roll out upgrades to facilities and equipment at clubs across the state, as soon as possible.

Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll added “The Queensland Police Service has had a proud and strong relationship with Surf Life Saving Queensland for over 90 years and looks forward to continuing our partnership with the extension of this service level funding agreement.

“Our two organisations not only work together through our many waterways, but also in the sky, with our recent long-term contract being renewed for Surf Life Saving Queensland to provide our POLAIR services.

“I look forward to our two organisations continuing their strong relationship for the next 10 years and beyond.”