How MOVE’s water safety programs are impacting multicultural communities
The incredible impact that the MOVE Moonee Valley leisure centres continue to have on the local community has been deemed exemplary by industry peers. MOVE continues to set the benchmark for water safety and inclusion programs, earning praise for its innovative approach and tangible outcomes.
Over the past 24 months, the MOVE Moonee Valley teams across Ascot Vale Leisure Centre (AVLC), Keilor East Leisure Centre (KELC) and Queens Park Swimming Pool (QPSP) have delivered industry-leading strategies and programs – aimed at increasing awareness around water safety and addressing the high rate of drowning among individuals who were born overseas – with proven results.
Recent data indicates that individuals born overseas are at greater risk of drowning in Australia. The National Drowning Report 2024 estimated that those born overseas accounted for 34% of total drowning deaths in recent years. These figures highlight the need for tailored programs that bridge the gap in water safety education.
MOVE Moonee Valley’s water safety programs are designed to meet this need and have shown measurable success, equipping participants with life-saving skills while fostering confidence in and around the water. The following programs showcase the remarkable results MOVE Moonee Valley has achieved.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Swimming Lessons
A participant survey from the 10-week CALD Swimming Lessons program, run at AVLC in partnership with Life Saving Victoria, showed a 192% increase in water confidence among children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Pre- and post-program surveys highlighted the program’s impact in helping kids build essential water safety skills and confidence.
LSV spokesperson Blair Morton emphasised Life Saving Victoria’s commitment to working with the community to enhance swimming and water safety knowledge among all Victorians, stating, “Swimming lessons are both much needed and highly sought after across the community.
“Life Saving Victoria’s Diversity and Inclusion team will continue to search for future funding from government and philanthropic partners to allow successful programs like this to take place,” Morton concluded.
The Next Wave Program
Through Aquatics and Recreation Victoria (ARV), the Next Wave Program has supported team members by providing training and mentoring for new swim teachers and lifeguards, including Ozgur Kaya, a refugee who now works as a swim teacher at AVLC.
This initiative addresses the growing demand for water safety lessons while ensuring greater access to aquatic education for local community members.
Kathy Parton, CEO ARV, said, “The Victorian Government’s funding of ARV to deliver The Next Wave program aims to attract job seekers from new and diverse priority cohorts across Victoria.
“It’s incredible to see MOVE having a significant impact on the community and can serve as a role model for how to effectively engage and work with multicultural communities. We would like to thank MOVE for all that you’re doing and for your ongoing partnership with ARV,” Kathy concluded.
Women’s Only Swimming Sessions
Women’s Only Swimming Sessions, held at AVLC, offers a welcoming space for women from CALD backgrounds to swim, stay active and build water confidence, in a safe and supportive environment.
Senior Constable Kim McKeown from Victoria Police said, “In our work with community groups at Ascot Vale and Flemington Ministry of Housing, we found many women couldn’t swim. Partnering with MOVE Moonee Valley has been an amazing collaboration, allowing us to connect with and educate participants on water safety through the Women’s Only swimming program.”
Access for All Abilities (AAA) Swim and Social Program
MOVE Moonee Valley team members continue to play a key role in supporting the AAA Swim and Social Program, focusing on inclusion by providing water activities for people with disabilities. Beyond swimming, this program offers opportunities for social connection, helping participants build confidence and enjoy time with others.
Jason, a participant in the AAA program, said, “The aqua aerobics and water sports activities were so much fun and helped improve my cardio endurance. But what really sets this program apart is the sense of community and friendship that developed among us all. We always enjoyed great conversations over coffee after each session.”
Jaye Hansford, Community Engagement Coordinator, said, “Through partnerships and community-driven programs, we are proud to be helping people from all backgrounds build confidence in and around the water.
“Partnering with esteemed organisations such as Life Saving Victoria (LSV), Aquatics and Recreation Victoria (ARV), Belgravia Foundation, Moonee Valley Council and Victoria Police has enabled us to make a huge difference in the lives of individuals and families when it comes to access, education and safety in and around water.
“The feedback from parents and participants highlights the positive impact of our programs, with significant boosts in confidence and water safety knowledge for our students,” Jaye concluded.
These programs are making a huge impact on the Moonee Valley community. For more information or to get involved, visit the MOVE Moonee Valley website here.
