Published on 12th November 2021

Lifeguard and Swim Teacher Shortage Provides Opportunities for Job Seekers

With pools preparing for the summer influx of swimmers, post-lockdown shortages of qualified lifeguards and swimming teachers risks slowing down the industry’s efforts to rebuild after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Justin Scarr, Chief Executive Officer, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia, said many pools were now struggling to find qualified staff to deliver water safety and swimming skills, as well as lifeguard services.

“This is a significant issue for an industry which really struggled to survive ongoing and sustained lockdowns,” Mr Scarr said.

“The good news is that for people who are currently unemployed, or looking at a change in career, there are jobs available right now across Australia.

“For people who love outdoor work, and working with people, the aquatic industry is a great place to launch your career. The only pre-requisite is to be able to swim.”

"The aquatic industry is terrific for people who need some flexibility – parents returning to the workforce, or people looking for hours that fit around their caring responsibilities.”

A review of job advertisements on Seek this week found 990 job ads across Australia for paid pool lifeguards and 805 ads for swim teachers, with the shortages being felt in particular in New South Wales and Victoria.

A Royal Life Saving analysis of job ads from seek.com.au across the country has found:

*Totals may include ads that are unattributed to a State/ Territory. It is also understood the average ad is looking for multiple roles somewhere around 10-15 staff.

RJ Houston, Royal Life Saving’s National Manager – Aquatics said most of the job ads are seeking dozens of people.

“We believe there are currently tens of thousands of available jobs for swim teachers, lifeguards and other aquatic industry staff such as receptionists,” Mr Houston said.

In a Royal Life Saving aquatic industry survey, lifeguards and swim teachers reported that the most rewarding and enjoyable elements of the role were working as part of a team and helping people.

“The lifeguard and swimming teacher roles are special roles within communities, which epitomise the Australian value of looking out for one another,’ said Mr Houston.

The sector also provides accelerated career growth into senior roles which provide opportunities to manage resources and people, as well as achieve a positive impact in local communities.”

“The aquatic industry values diversity and provides flexible work arrangements with many employers providing additional perks like free gym and swim memberships, making roles here attractive for people looking to get active.”

With many employers providing free or low-cost training for an entry-level role, and every role providing highly valuable and transferrable skills, now is a great time to ask your local pool about working there.

To find out more, visit our careers in focus section on our website here.

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