‘First Lap’ Swim Program Extended to Kindy Kids

Did you know that 25 Australian children aged between 0-4 years lost their lives due to drowning in 2020-21? This was a 108 per cent increase on 2019-20 and a 9 percent increase on the 10-year average. One of the most effective ways that we can prevent this tragedy is by teaching our children how to swim.

Last week saw the NSW Government’s new learn to swim voucher program being expanded from preschool aged children to include kindergarten kids who missed out on lessons due to COVID restrictions.

Under the ‘First Lap’ program, eligible children from the Goulburn electorate can access a $100 voucher for swimming lessons with an approved provider, with businesses able to register for it from next month.

Minister for Sport, Natalie Ward, said the NSW Government will invest $54 million over two years in the program, which will also ease cost of living pressures for families.

“Summer in Australia is all about swimming, at your local pool, beach or river. We know families have been doing it tough during the COVID lockdown and the First Lap program will also ensure family budgets aren’t stretched so our kids have these crucial skills,” Mrs Ward said.

Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said families could download the vouchers from Service NSW soon. “We know the families have been doing it tough during the pandemic, and it’s really important they don’t miss out on swimming lessons. That’s why we’re making sure they can also access the First Lap voucher program now that our pools are back open for lessons,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

Families can apply for the First Lap vouchers from 1 December through Service NSW. For more information, visit: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/firstlap

• Topics:

• Swimming