The state government has responded to concerns about swimming education and the lack of aquatic skills among youths.
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On Wednesday, minister for employment Jaala Pulford announced 280 people will be recruited as swim teachers across Victoria. This workforce will stem from a $3.4 million partnership between Jobs Victoria and the Australian Swim Coaches and Teachers Association.
Over the last two years, swim teachers have left the industry due to lockdowns and restrictions. Life Saving Victoria indicates a current shortage of 1800 teachers.
Ms Pulford is conscious of the program's necessity.
"We're all keen to get back in the water so it's vital we have swim teachers teaching our kids the knowledge and skills they need to be safe," Ms Pulford said.
"Getting those most impacted by the pandemic into employment is critical, as is getting young children back into lessons to prepare for the summer months."
Minister for community sport, multicultural affairs, and youth Ros Spence is aware of the importance of swimming instruction.
"It only takes a few weeks of swimming lessons for the impacts to be noticeable," Ms Spence said.
"This is a great initiative to ensure kids have water safety skills and we are supporting young people and people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds back into work."
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Australian Swimming Coaches and Teachers Association president Joanne Love knows the situation is dire and is pleased with the development.
"Our industry is in desperate need of swim teachers and this will meet the demand for lessons and provide an essential life skill for children." Ms Love said.
Individuals who partake in the new scheme will earn an income while they learn about their job's requirements, receiving nationally-accredited swim instructor and water safety training and first-aid and CPR training. Further support, including job-readiness training, individual mentoring, and funding for necessities, will be available.
The initiative aims to assist those most impacted by loss of employment through the pandemic, including women over 45, young people under 25, multicultural communities, and people with a disability.
Those interested in the program can register and apply for roles at the Jobs Victoria online hub.
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