Every Queensland child should have access to basic swimming and water safety education and knowledge and that is why I welcome the Federal Government’s recent commitment to this.
Whilst the Queensland Government drags its feet on this important issue, it’s great to see the Commonwealth step up and commit to the Save Our Schoolkids (SOS) campaign that will make a real difference and potentially save little lives.
Surely the safety of children is paramount.
The Liberal National Party believe that swimming is an essential life skill for Queensland kids.
Tragically, child drownings in backyard swimming pools, local waterways and dams are becoming more frequent.
The Royal Life Saving Society drowning report indicated that for 2016/17, 73 people of all ages in Queensland drowned, an increase on the previous year.
The LNP’s policy to provide universal access to swimming and water safety lessons to all Queensland primary schools will bring Queensland in line with other states and territories on promoting water safety and education to children.
With the warmer Spring season just around the corner where over a third of all drownings occur in Australia, the Queensland Government cannot sit on its hands any longer.
We owe it to our kids to give them an important life skill that delivers health and lifestyle benefits as well.
Simone Wilson MP
Member for Pumicestone