STRATEGIES to tackle the appalling rate of Indigenous drowning deaths in the Northern Territory were developed at a conference hosted by the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia in Darwin from September 29 to 30 to mark NT Water Safety Week.

Forty-five representatives from communities including Ngukkur, Borroloola, Pirlangimpi, Nguiu, Kintore, Santa Teresa, Areyonga, Wadeye, Jabiru, Oenpelli, Alyangula, Batchelor and Nauiyu will join guests from South Australia and Queensland and representatives from the Australian and Northern Territory Governments for the two day conference.

"Indigenous Australians are at up to four times more risk of drowning than non Indigenous Australians. Improving access to swimming pools and water safety classes in remote communities is vital if the drowning epidemic is to be seriously addressed,"  the Executive Director, Royal Life Saving Society NT Floss Roberts said.

"At the conference, the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia discussed the challenges and opportunities of managing and delivering programs for remote swimming pools. Other key issues that discussed at the conference included: employment and training opportunities; pool management solutions; guidelines for safe pool operation; access; community development; and health and education programs.

"In addition to helping reduce drowning, studies show clear social and health benefits to children in remote communities who are using a well maintained swimming pool on a regular basis, including reduced skin, eye, ear and respiratory infections.

"We are delighted that the Australian Government has agreed to support this conference as we believe the collaboration will facilitate the way forward for pools in remote Indigenous communities.

"In bringing key representations from the communities together, remote pool staff were able to share their experiences and build a network of support across the Territory."