Federal Member for Monash Mary Aldred MP met with Royal Life Saving Australia after its latest report showed Australia recorded its highest number of drowning deaths since records began.

Ms Aldred said the report stated:

• There has been a 74 per cent increase in drownings in the age group of 65 years and over.

• Drowning rates nearly tripled in regional and remote areas compared to those in city areas.

• Coastal locations accounted for 43 per cent of drownings.

• ⁠More than a third of drowning deaths were people who were born overseas.

Ms Aldred used a speech in the Federal Parliament to draw attention to the report, as well as support for South Gippsland and Bass Coast coastal areas.

“Tragically, Phillip Island has seen a number of drownings in recent years.

“Lives have been lost, families remain in grief and first responders carry lifelong scars. There are a number of really valuable findings in the report, which I look forward to engaging with our local community on,” said Ms Aldred.

Ms Aldred also raised concern about the Victorian State Government cost shifting surf patrols to local government.

“Last year, Bass Coast Shire Council contributed $98,000 towards the Royal Life Saving Society surf patrols. This year they have been requested to fund $260,000. That is a 160 per cent increase with minimal consultation—outside standard budget requests.

“This is a looming disaster. Our community deserves so much better,” she said.

You can access the full report at: www.royallifesaving.com.au