Over 2000 incidents of abuse, violence and aggression were recorded against aquatic facility staff across Australia last year, prompting Royal Life Saving Australia to launch the ‘Keep Your Cool at the Pool’ campaign.

The initiative aims to foster respect and cooperation among pool users, ensuring safe and supportive environments for both patrons and staff.

Royal Life Saving’s General Manager of Capability and Industry, R.J. Houston, stressed the significance of the campaign.

“Violence and aggression towards lifeguards and swim teachers are totally unacceptable, and this campaign encourages a collaborative approach to safety by reinforcing a culture of respect, cooperation and zero-tolerance for aggression in aquatic facilities,” Houston said.

The campaign sets clear behavioural expectations, urging patrons to follow staff instructions designed to maintain safety. Lifeguards and swim teachers play a vital role in protecting swimmers and delivering life-saving education, yet often face hostility when enforcing rules.

Scott Vanderheyden, Belgravia Group Manager – Health & Safety, warned of the risks this creates.

“Unfortunately, lifeguards and swim teachers are often abused for providing basic safety instructions... This can lead to hesitation in providing safety instructions promptly, which is the last thing we want,” he said.

AUSTSWIM General Manager Georgie Nichol echoed these concerns.

“We stand united... in championing a culture of respect and zero tolerance to abuse. Let’s stand together to end all forms of abuse and ensure every swim teacher feels respected and valued,” Nichol said.

For more information, visit the Royal Life Saving campaign website.