Lack of swim teachers leaves 185k Queenslanders high and dry

A dire lack of qualified swim teachers across the state has left hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders unable to access swimming lessons.

A lack of swim teachers across the state has left hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders unable to access swimming lessons.

It is estimated that more than 185,000 people across the state are missing out on swimming lessons as staff shortages leave providers unable to fill demand.

Swimming and water safety teacher training provider AUSTSWIM found across their Queensland swim schools up to six teachers were needed at each to fill the current demand.

There is a huge swimming teacher shortage across Queensland. Picture: Brendan Radke

AUSTSWIM CEO Brad Low said the shortages were reported after visiting some of the 307 swim schools they operate locally.

“Over the past two months we have personally visited over 40 of them. Each of these swim schools have reported they need up to six teaches to fill the current demand for classes,” Mr Low said.

“With one AUSTSWIM teacher teaching up to 100 children per week, the shortage of teachers means approximately 185,000 Queenslanders are unable to access swimming and water safety lessons.”

In response to staff shortages the not-for-profit training provider has lowered the minimum age prospective swim teachers can train for and obtain their licenses to 16 years.

They have also temporarily reduced the price of their Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety course.