A Sector United: The 2025 Victorian Aquatic and Recreation Industry Conference
A Sector United: The 2025 Victorian Aquatic and Recreation Industry Conference
The 2025 Victorian Aquatic and Recreation Industry Conference, led by Aquatics & Recreation Victoria (ARV) in partnership with LSV, brought together leaders, practitioners, and partners from across the state for three days of collaboration, reflection, and inspiration.
Held from 17–19 September, the event saw a strong turnout and vibrant energy, with delegates deeply engaged in sessions that tackled both current challenges and future opportunities.
ARV, as the state’s peak body for the aquatic and recreation industry, continues to champion the sector’s growth, workforce, and voice. LSV was proud to lead a breakout room which brought its specialist expertise in aquatic safety, drowning prevention, and education, reinforcing a unified commitment to community wellbeing.
Aquatic Safety Reflections
In the LSV room, the first day focused on aquatic safety, opening with a sobering yet necessary discussion on occupational violence and aggression, led by Aligned Leisure and the City of Casey.
Scott Vanderheyden from Belgravia Leisure followed with insights on workforce development, highlighting strategies to support and grow our teams.
A reflective session on the WaterMarc incident, presented by Drew Hildebrandt from Brimbank City Council, reminded us of the importance of vigilance and continuous improvement.
The day closed with a powerful fireside chat on child safety, hosted by the Commission for Children and Young People, an inspiring reminder of our shared responsibility.
Swimming & Water Safety Education
Day two shifted focus to swimming and water safety education.
YMCA Victoria and Kingswim showcased innovative approaches to Learn to Swim program design, while local case studies from metropolitan, regional, and independent providers offered practical insights.
A candid panel discussion on swim teacher retention, featuring Luke Daly (ASSA), Courtney Anderson (AUSTSWIM), Charlotte Lennon (Northcote ARC), and Toni Sier (LSV), sparked honest dialogue around workforce sustainability.
The day concluded with sessions on meaningful engagement through partnerships, co-design, and global lessons, reinforcing the value of collaboration.
Key Themes and a Sector Milestone
Across both days, consistent themes emerged: people, culture, vigilance, empowerment, prevention, and community impact. These threads wove through every presentation and conversation, underscoring the sector’s commitment to safety, inclusion, and excellence.
A major highlight was the official launch of the 2025 Victorian Public Pools: State of the Sector Report on 19 September. Launched by Sheena Watt MP, this landmark report, co-authored by LSV and ARV provides a comprehensive snapshot of Victoria’s public aquatic facilities and their contribution to community health, safety, and social value. Its release marks a pivotal moment for the sector, offering data-driven insights to guide future planning and investment.
Thank You
We extend our sincere thanks to ARV, all the speakers, sponsors, and organisers of the 2025 Victorian Aquatic and Recreation Industry Conference. Your dedication and vision continue to shape a safer, stronger, and more inclusive aquatic sector for all Victorians.