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Frequently asked questions
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How do I join a life saving club?
Visit our Join Us page to join your nearest Life Saving Victoria club.
Each club manages its own memberships, so you can contact them directly for details on joining.
How do I sign my child up for Nippers?
Nippers is a fun and structured program for children aged 5–14 to learn lifesaving skills and water safety in a supportive environment.
To get started, visit our Join Us page to find your nearest Life Saving Victoria club. Each club manages its own Nippers program and registrations, so you can contact them directly for details about dates, fees and how to enrol.
Registrations typically open before the summer season and places can fill quickly, so early enquiry is recommended.
Should my child be able to swim before starting Nippers?
Yes. Life Saving Victoria recommends your child is able to swim before participating in Nippers.
Your child will be required to complete a preliminary swim assessment for their age group before taking part in any water-based activities.
While Nippers will help develop your child’s swimming and water safety abilities, it should not be seen as a substitute to swimming lessons.
How do I become a pool lifeguard?
To become a pool lifeguard, you need to complete an accredited lifeguard qualification and hold current CPR and First Aid certification.
Visit our Courses & Training page to find available Lifeguard Courses, entry requirements and upcoming course dates. Once qualified, you can apply for roles at aquatic facilities across Victoria.
How do I renew my membership?
Membership renewals are managed through your local Life Saving Victoria club.
Visit our Join Us page to find your club and access membership renewal information. If you are unsure about your renewal status, contact your club directly for assistance.
How do I get my Bronze Medallion?
The Bronze Medallion is the award required to be a volunteer lifesaver.
Younger members can also get their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC), which can be completed before attempting the Bronze Medallion.
Life Saving Victoria delivers courses to obtain your Bronze Medallion and SRC, which can be found here.
What qualifications do I need to patrol?
To patrol at a Life Saving Victoria club, members must complete the required lifesaving awards, including a Bronze Medallion or Surf Rescue Certificate, depending on age and role.
Your local club can guide you through the training pathway and proficiency requirements.
How do schools book a water safety program?
Schools can book structured water safety and education programs through Life Saving Victoria.
Visit our Education & Learn to Swim page to explore available programs and submit a booking enquiry.
How do I compete in Lifesaving Sport?
Lifesaving Sport provides structured competition pathways for members of all ages, from local carnivals to state and national events.
Join a Life Saving Victoria club to access training and competition opportunities. Visit our Join Us page to get started.
Where can club members find resources, training opportunities and information on events?
Members can access a dedicated hub of information called Club Gateway.
To enter this portal, members will need their Surf Life Saving Australia member username and password. This will be provided when you sign up as a member.
Please contact LSV Club Support on 9676 6930 or the SLSA help desk 1300 724 006 for further information.
What is the Victorian Water Safety Certificate?
The Victorian Water Safety Certificate is a Victorian Government initiative that sets swimming and water safety competencies that should be achieved by the end of primary school.
The certificate is designed to supplement existing swimming & water safety programs delivered by schools and learn-to-swim providers.
More information on the certificate, including a teacher guide, can be found below.
How do I get to the Life Saving Victoria State Centre?
Life Saving Victoria’s State Centre is located at 200 The Boulevard, Port Melbourne.
Limited parking is available at and around the State Centre.
The 235 bus service runs to nearby Sandridge Beach, and the 109 tram runs to Beacon Cove. Allow 15 minutes walking time.
Can I hire the LSV building at Port Melbourne as an event venue?
Yes. The Views Restaurant is situated on the upstairs level of the Life Saving Victoria State Centre.
The Views has capacity for up to 250 guests, offers a full range of catering options and provides panoramic bay views from all its function rooms.
Options for beachside functions are also available.
Find out more about hiring The Views for your next event below.