Getting swimming lessons will soon be more accessible for local students in need, with the City of Stirling establishing a $50,000 “Schools to Pools” grant. The grant will help reduce both pool entry and transport costs for some local schools using the city’s aquatic facilities for swimming and water safety programs. The city provides pool space for schools free of charge, however transport and entry costs are still incurred by the schools and partially passed onto families. The new initiative comes after the State Government discontinued funding for vacation swimming programs in 2025, following a ‘once-off, cost-of-living’ subsidy provided in 2024. The $50,000 fund was developed by the City of Stirling after a motion led by Councillor Elizabeth Re was passed in November 2025, requesting that a report be prepared with information and advocacy opportunities related to learn-to-swim programs. “With its strong aquatic education programs, established coastal safety services and active engagement with local schools, the city is well placed to further strengthen its contribution to community water safety. By funding transport and pool entry costs, the program will enable eligible schools to take part without financial burden.”
