LSV to help Level the Field through new Dive Start initiative

LSV is proud to announce that it has been successful in receiving funding through the Level the Field 2025–2027 grant program, delivered by Leisure Networks in partnership with the Victorian Government. 

LSV is one of 29 game-changing initiatives that aim to increase support for more people with disability to join the sport and recreation workforce in paid and volunteer roles.

The funding will support LSV’s new Dive Start program, an ambitious workforce pathway initiative designed to open up aquatic industry employment and progression opportunities for people with disability across Victoria. The program will focus on practical pathways into some of the industry’s largest and most important roles, including Pool Lifeguards and Swim Teachers, while also creating a new pathway into Duty/Aquatic Leadership roles.

What LSV will deliver

Through Dive Start, LSV will establish a paid co-design advisory group involving people with disability to help shape the program from the beginning. LSV will then review and adapt Pool Lifeguard and Swim Teacher training courses to improve access, participation and successful outcomes, before trialling accessible delivery in regional locations.

The project will also develop and trial a new Duty/Aquatic Leadership training pathway for people with disability, supporting career progression beyond entry-level roles. Participants will be connected with professional development opportunities, industry events and sector networks, while LSV will also create improved access and inclusion resources for trainers and aquatic industry employers.

Aquatic facilities are vital community spaces, particularly in regional Victoria, providing places for people to learn, work, volunteer, and connect. However, people with disability remain significantly underrepresented in the aquatic industry workforce. Royal Life Saving Australia’s national aquatic industry workforce research indicates that people with disability currently make up only about 8 per cent of the workforce, highlighting the need for practical, inclusive pathways into training, employment and career progression

Why it matters

By focusing on accessible training, co-design, employer readiness and sustainable career pathways, Dive Start aims to help remove barriers and create lasting change. The initiative aligns with LSV’s purpose to save lives and empower communities to safely enjoy water, while strengthening inclusive workforce capability across the aquatic sector.