2 minute read
Introduction
It is with great pleasure that I present to you the Royal Life Saving Society – Australia Strategic Framework 2016-2020. Titled “a nation free from drowning” it outlines this aspiration, and sets out the strategic priorities which will guide our work in coming years.
We are approaching a landmark year. In 2019, Royal Life Saving will celebrate 125 years of saving lives in Australia.
In acknowledging this milestone it is important that we reflect on our achievements, consult with our partners and reinforce our commitment to reduce drowning and increase swimming, water safety and lifesaving skills across the Australian community.
Over the past century our vision has remained the same, and we have always sought to reduce drowning, to increase physical activity, especially in and around the water, and to contribute to the creation of more resilient communities, Australian wide.
Achieving these long term goals requires a deliberate effort to promote change. This change is best identified as; • Shifts in our knowledge or advances in the evidence base • Newly developed or adjusted policies that impact drowning prevention or that promote water safety • Increases in community water safety awareness and education • Increased adoption of the risk management systems that make aquatic environments safer • Shifts in individual and community behaviours, particularly among those at greatest risk
The many challenges and opportunities of a nation free from drowning are outlined in the infographic by McCrindle. It encompasses all the elements, demographics, data and programs that impact our work.
Over the next four years we will focus on eight priority areas: • Drowning prevention leadership • Research, policy and advocacy • Community awareness and action • Swimming, lifesaving, water safety pathway • Drowning prevention leadership abroad • Safe aquatic locations • Organisational cohesion and growth • People and culture These eight priority areas will be delivered with a commitment to data, to advocacy and to action. This is our leadership formula, though we don’t use the term ‘leadership’ lightly. Our leadership places the issue in focus, makes every effort to collaborate with openness, and recognises that solutions to big issues are best built with others. Finally, we seek to be data driven, innovative and to communicate with purpose.
This strategic framework is a team effort. It represents the collective effort of our Members, Board, Staff, volunteers and partners. It is a framework to realise our goals as an organisation, and to reinforce our commitment to the Australian community.
Justin Scarr
Chief Executive Officer Royal Life Saving Society - Australia
Research Policy & Advocacy
Community Awareness & Action
Organisational Cohesion & Growth
