Surf Life Saving and International Development

Surf Life Saving in Australia has provided support and expertise to many allied lifesaving organisations across the globe. Contributing to the International Life Saving Federation’s global effort to reduce injury and death in, on, or around water, Surf Life Saving exchanges information and best practice and supports the establishment of lifesaving services in areas of the world where they are needed.

Most of Surf Life Saving’s international work is undertaken in the Asia-Pacific region, not only due to geographical location, but also because of the aquatic environments within the region. Also, as the largest developed country within the Asia Pacific region, a great deal of responsibility to support developing countries lies with Australia.

In 2009-10, Surf Life Saving provided assistance to 25 countries, 20 of which are in the Asia-Pacific Region. Developmental assistance has been provided to a number of countries including Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Samoa, and India.

Surf Life Saving’s international development activity is supported by AusAID, Australian Volunteers for International Development, the Australian Sports Commission and the Kevin Weldon AM International Aid Fund.

Surf Life Saving is constantly looking for support to expand and deliver more programs to developing countries. If you are interested in hearing more about the international work that Surf Life Saving is undertaking please contact international@slsa.asn.au.

International Services

International Alliances

Where we work

International Volunteering

SLS and the Millenium Development Goals

International Tours and Visits