Surf Life Saving Australia reminds local clubs not to endorse political candidates

As an apolitical and a not-for-profit organisation, Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) has reminded all Surf Life Saving affiliated entities and members of a Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) that they are not to endorse any political candidate, party or political issue.

This follows Mackellar MP Jason Falinski having posted campaign material alongside a local lifeguard in a now-removed Facebook video. Falinski is facing a challenge in his Sydney Northern Beaches seat from teal candidate Dr Sophie Scamps.

Surf Life Saving Australia issued a statement telling its members that the iconic red and yellow flags and lifesaver patrol uniforms – including their red and yellow skull quartered cap – are intellectual property trademarks. They cannot be used without Surf Life Saving Australia’s approval, nor to endorse any political candidate or party.

The statement advised “anyone attempting to leverage an association with SLSA, for the purposes of running a political campaign, without permission, may result in disciplinary action against the club and member.

“SLSA has not endorsed any political candidates or approved the use of our roundel, patrol uniform, red and yellow cap or flags in any campaign materials.

“SLSA follows the regulations of the Australian Charity and Not-for-Profit Commission, that states that charities must not ‘promote or oppose a political party or a candidate for political office.’”

A spokeswoman from Surf Life Saving NSW told SMH the Falinski campaign materials had led them to issue the stern caution to clubs.

Falinski said he understood why Surf Live Saving had taken the action they did but denied the club had endorsed him or any political party in the video he posted, and said it had only garnered attention because of strong backlash on Twitter.

SLSA has thanked members who are complying with their policies and who have been in touch seeking advice or who have reported breaches.