Ex-Cyclone Alfred Causes Widespread Disruption to Aquatic Facilities Across South East Queensland and Northern NSW

Cyclone Alfred has brought extensive disruption, damage and flooding across 37 Local Government Areas (LGAs), adversely affecting individuals, families, communities, emergency and health systems and infrastructure, including aquatic facilities. Royal Life Saving Australia extends our support for all those impacted, particularly colleagues in the aquatic industry and drowning prevention sectors.

Impact on the Aquatic Industry

Royal Life Saving Australia estimates that up to 349 aquatic facilities have been impacted due to their locations within the declared disaster zones. These facilities include:

• 133 community outdoor swimming pools
• 76 multi-use aquatic centres
• 112 commercial swim schools
• 28 club and education institution pools

Impacts include damage to facilities, water quality disruptions from floodwater, debris and other contaminants, supply chain issues and the impacts to up to 10,786 aquatic workers, including lifeguards, swimming and water safety teachers.

Ordinarily, these facilities provide an estimated 200,000+ visits per day, with the estimated economic impact of closures of approximately up to $5.8 million per day. It is estimated most affected facilities have been closed for an average of 3 days, representing an estimated economic impact of up to $17.5 million.

Recovery and Support

Affected aquatic facilities and workers may be eligible for support through a range of government assistance measures, including:

• Disaster Recovery Funding Announced for North and Far North Queensland
• Australian Government Additional Support for Impacted Communities
• Queensland Government Disaster Assistance
• NSW Government Recovery Grants and Payments
• Queensland Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Funding

Royal Life Saving encourages affected aquatic facilities and operators to seek available funding and support (if eligible) to assist with recovery.

We also note in disaster areas without utilities, some aquatic facilities, such as the Gold Coast aquatic facilities, have been opened free of charge to community so they can access things like toilets, showers and power to charge electronic communication devices.

Looking Ahead

As the industry assesses the full extent of damage and develops pathways to recovery, Royal Life Saving remains committed to supporting aquatic industry professionals during this challenging time.

We remain hopeful that all affected colleagues have remained safe and encourage those impacted to reach out for assistance as needed.

We welcome government and community support for the rebuilding of these essential community facilities, ensuring they can continue providing vital swimming and water safety services for the affected communities, bringing people together and enabling greater community wellbeing and resilience.