Queensland kids have been stopped on the starting block under Labor’s SwimStart program with the eligibility criteria turning families away.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said despite repeated calls to broaden the criteria, the program still discriminates against any child over four years or any family not holding a healthcare or pension card.
“Cost-of-living pressures are biting and when a family must choose between putting food on the table or swimming lessons, there’s really no option,” said Mr Bennett.
“While I welcome the increased funding to the program, I can’t sit by while so many Bundaberg and Burnett children are still falling through the cracks.
“Here in the Burnett we are surrounded by water so it goes without saying that learning to swim is a must.
“The opportunity to learn this lifesaving skill shouldn’t be dictated by a child’s age or their family’s income.
“I’ve written to the Minister for Sport to ask him to listen to the people on the ground and broaden the eligibility criteria.
“We can’t be cutting corners when it comes to saving children’s lives.”
Whitakers Swim School instructor Shelley Whitaker said the extra funding is great but there’s still a lot of work to be done.
“Sadly, there are a lot of older children that need lessons but they can’t access this program,” said Mrs Whitaker.
“With the current cost of living parents are choosing between learning a lifesaving skill or putting food on the table.
“This is not just pensioners; middle income families are pulling out as they simply can’t afford it anymore.
“Unfortunately, these are the families who are the majority and it’s their children who will miss out.”
ENDS.
17/01/2024