AUSTSWIM Awards

The AUSTSWIM Awards celebrate excellence across the aquatic industry, recognising individuals and organisations that demonstrate outstanding commitment to swimming and water safety education.

The Awards acknowledge the vital role swimming teachers, trainers, assessors, swim schools and aquatic facilities play in improving water safety outcomes for communities across Australia. They also provide an opportunity to share best practice, highlight leadership and inspire continuous improvement across the sector.

Professional Excellence Celebrate excellence in teaching, leadership and program delivery.

Community Impact Acknowledge individuals and organisations making a meaningful impact.

Quality Standards Promote high standards of safety, inclusion and education.

Industry Recognition Elevate the profile of swimming teachers and aquatic professionals.

Individual Awards

Individual Awards recognise the contribution of people working directly in swimming and water safety education.

These awards acknowledge:

Excellence in teaching practice
Leadership and mentoring of others
Commitment to professional development
Positive impact on learners and communities

Examples of Individual Awards include Teacher of the Year, Emerging Teacher of the Year, Trainer of the Year and Assessor of the Year.

AUSTSWIM representatives receiving organisational recognition for excellence in aquatic education

Organisational Awards

Our organisation Awards recognise swim schools, aquatic facilities and organisations that demonstrate excellence in program delivery and leadership.

These awards consider:

Quality and consistency of programs
Commitment to safety and inclusion
Leadership and staff development
Positive community outcomes

Examples include Swim School of the Year, Aquatic Facility of the Year and Community Impact Awards.

Industry leaders celebrating special recognition at an AUSTSWIM aquatic education awards event

Special Recognition Awards

Special Recognition Awards acknowledge long-standing or exceptional contributions to aquatic education.

These awards may recognise:

Industry leadership
Innovation and influence
Sustained contribution over time
Impact beyond an individual program or organisation

Award categories may vary from year to year.

Australian Awards Guidelines 2025 International Awards Guidelines 2025

Nominations are open to:

AUSTSWIM teachers
Trainers and assessors
Swim schools and aquatic facilities
Community organisations and industry partners

Nominees must demonstrate a strong commitment to quality, safety and positive learning experiences in aquatic environments.

The nomination process is designed to be transparent and fair.

It typically includes:

Submission of a nomination form
Provision of supporting evidence, such as examples of practice, outcomes or leadership
Review against published criteria
Assessment by an independent judging panel

Clear guidance is provided to support nominators through the process.

Nominations are assessed by a panel of experienced aquatic professionals and industry representatives.

Judging considers: