Are you passionate about water safety and looking to make a real impact in the community? Surf Life Saving South Australia is expanding our Community & Aquatics team with a new Aquatic Programs Coordinator role. (We’ll also be advertising an Aquatics Program Officer position in the coming months!) This role has been created due to our program expansion, and we’re seeking a passionate, driven individual to lead and grow our pool-based water safety education initiatives across the state.

About SLSSA

Surf Life Saving South Australia is the peak organisation for water safety and lifesaving services in the state, proudly affiliated with Surf Life Saving Australia. Our mission is to achieve zero preventable deaths in South Australian waters while fostering connected, inclusive communities. With over 9,000 members across 22 clubs, we deliver essential emergency services, surf sports, and water safety education programs that reach metro, regional, and rural communities across South Australia.

About the Role

As the Aquatic Programs Coordinator, you will play a key leadership role in SLSSA’s Community & Aquatics team. You’ll oversee and expand our flagship community programs - including VACSWIM, Watch Around Water, the SA Aquatics Conference and other outreach programs - aiming to reach over 50,000 school-aged children each year. This is a role where you’ll ensure our programs are delivered successfully, meet all funding requirements, and continue to grow their reach throughout South Australia.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver community programs: Coordinate the planning and delivery of SLSSA’s aquatic programs (e.g. VACSWIM, Watch Around Water, SA Aquatics Conference, and multicultural water safety programs), ensuring they meet all funding requirements and quality standards.
• Drive program growth: Expand the reach and participation of our water safety initiatives across South Australia, striving to educate more children and families each year.
• Coordinate logistics and staff: Administer all program logistics, including recruiting and training instructors, scheduling sessions, and allocating resources to ensure smooth operations.
• Stakeholder engagement: Work closely with local councils, government agencies, schools, and aquatic industry partners to enhance program delivery and build strong community partnerships.
• Advocacy and representation: Represent SLSSA in industry forums and working groups, advocating for best practices in aquatic education and water safety.
• Customer service and marketing: Oversee customer inquiries and collaborate on marketing efforts to promote our programs, ensuring a positive experience for participants and high community awareness.

What We’re Looking For

• Industry experience: Proven experience in the not-for-profit, aquatic, or sporting sector (especially in program or swim school coordination).
• Relevant qualifications: Tertiary qualification in Sport & Recreation, Community Development, or a related field.
• Leadership & communication: Strong leadership and team management skills, excellent communication abilities, and solid administrative/organisational skills.
• Community passion: A genuine passion for community engagement and water safety education, with the drive to make a difference and inspire others.

Why Join SLSSA?

• Make an impact: Be part of a growing team dedicated to making South Australian waters safer. Your work will directly contribute to saving lives and educating the community.
• Supportive environment: Join a passionate, community-focused organisation where teamwork and a positive culture are at the forefront.
• Career development: Enjoy a full-time, permanent role with a competitive and opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Meaningful mission: Work with purpose in an organisation committed to zero preventable deaths in our waters and building inclusive, connected communities.