DESCRIPTION:
Royal Life Saving Australia, in partnership with Swinburne University, VicHealth and AUSTSWIM, hosted a virtual launch of new research on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) across the aquatic and leisure ecosystem.
Held on Friday 22 August 2025 at 3:00 pm AEST, the webinar presented findings from a first-of-its-kind national study involving more than 300 industry staff and dozens of facilities. The report introduces a DEI Maturity Model and outlines practical steps for facilities, operators and policy makers to create safer, more inclusive and equitable experiences.
What was covered
- Walkthrough of key findings and the DEI Maturity Model
- Challenges and opportunities facing aquatic and leisure facilities
- Recommendations for industry leaders, operators and policy makers
- Sector-wide actions to strengthen inclusion and equity
Hosted by
RJ Houston, General Manager – Capability & Industry, Royal Life Saving Australia
Presenters and speakers
- Dr Ryan Storr, Swinburne University
- Dr Carleigh Yeomans, Swinburne University
- Sam Tantum, AUSTSWIM
- Shelley White, VicHealth
- Ian Boorman, The Y
- Mel Pratt, Cardinia Shire
Why it matters: Aquatic facilities are essential community infrastructure delivering health, safety, social and economic benefits. Their value depends on being inclusive and accessible to all. This report helps the sector turn good intentions into structured action.
