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Stuart Ayres said applications are now open and it’s a great opportunity to secure funding for projects that could make a real difference to community safety.

“The Water Safety Fund Community Grants Program is a fantastic initiative and I am encouraging not-for-profit organisations and community groups in NSW to submit a proposal,” Stuart Ayres said.

Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant acknowledged that while last summer we saw fewer drownings than the year prior, there are still far too many families who have been left to mourn the loss of a loved one.

“The NSW Government is committed to improving water safety and reducing the number of preventable deaths and serious injuries in the water. We want everyone to enjoy our renowned waterways and return home safely,” Mr Grant said.

This year’s Water Safety Fund Community Grants Program will focus on projects addressing:

• Risk-taking behaviour around the water involving young men, and the use of drugs and alcohol;
• Rip current awareness / beach safety
• Taking safety precautions, such as wearing lifejackets while boating and rock fishing
• Highlighting the dangers of swimming at unpatrolled locations;
• Aboriginal communities;
• CALD communities and international visitors.

Grants range from $25,000 to $250,000, with preference given to collaborative projects between water safety and community organisations.

Applications for the Water Safety Fund Community Grants Program close at 3pm 27 July 2018.

View the Summer Drowning Report 17/18 by Royal Life Saving.