VICSWIM learn to swim program thrown funding lifeline

The VICSWIM Summer 'Kidz' learn to swim program will be overhauled and revived as a result of a funding boost in the 2011-12 Victorian Budget.
The Victorian Government has committed $1.6 million over four years as part of a new push to improve water safety by increasing the participation of Victorian children in learn to swim programs.
Announcing the funding Victorian Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty explained that "under Labor, the long-standing VICSWIM holiday program slumped to its lowest participation rate since it started in the mid 1970s, down to just 4,200 in 2008-09 after peaking at around 20,000 in the 1980s.
"The Coalition Government will not only boost funding to the program, but also revamp the funding model and subsidise costs for families."
"We will do what the former Labor Government failed to do - overhaul the funding of this valuable program and allow the program to operate on a per head subsidy basis," Mr Delahunty said.
The VICSWIM summer holiday program equips children with the basic skills and confidence they need to enjoy swimming safely across a variety of aquatic disciplines and conditions.
Minister Delahunty added "improving affordability means better access for families, and our commitment will give children better water safety skills around pools, beaches, dams, creeks and rivers.
"The Coalition Government is helping VICSWIM to build on its proud legacy by giving youngsters essential swimming skills to further their awareness and involvement in a range of water-based activities.
"Tragic and unnecessary drowning deaths can be reduced by investing in water-based learning for youngsters, which VICSWIM has been providing for more than 30 years."
"Knowing how to swim is not just an asset for life, it is a great way to keep fit and embrace a healthy and fun lifestyle."