19 January 2026

Multicultural swimming programs supporting families in Cannington

For many families in Cannington, learning to swim has become a highlight of the week thanks to Royal Life Saving WA’s Multicultural Swim and Survive lessons.

Supported by the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport, the inclusive lessons are delivered by multicultural instructors and offer communities across WA the chance to build swimming and water safety skills in a culturally supportive environment.

There has been strong demand from local families, with more than 200 participants enrolling in the eight-week program at Cannington Leisureplex in Term 4, and a total of 380 students joining in over a six-month period.

Luul Ibraahim, a multicultural advisor and Somali community advocate, says programs like this meet a very real need in the community.

“Programs such as this are especially vital for multicultural communities, many of whom have limited access to structured water safety training,” she said. “Cannington is fortunate to be home to a diverse community that genuinely relies on and benefits from programs like these.”

Parents have also been quick to notice the impact. “One father shared his experience attending with his two sons,” shared Luul. “One has autism and he spoke about the joy and comfort he feels watching both boys enjoy the water while learning essential water safety.  Another parent has mentioned that she brings all her children to these lessons, and the children don’t want to get out of the water.”

Adults have also embraced the Men’s Only and Women’s Only swimming and water safety programs, which encourage older learners to build confidence in a supported setting.

Alkesh Chauhan, who attends adult water safety lessons and enrols his children in swimming classes, said the experience has been important for his family.

“It’s very important they know how to swim so they can survive in emergency situations,” he said. “I’m learning the basics of water safety because I’ve never done any swimming before.”

The need for programs like this is clear. In Western Australia, one in four drowning incidents involves a person born overseas, highlighting the importance of swimming and water safety education that is accessible and inclusive.

Royal Life Saving WA CEO Peter Leaversuch says the key is working alongside communities.

“People from migrant communities often have missed out on those early stages, so we’re really focused on fast tracking them,” he said. “It’s being delivered with the community, not just for them. We have migrant instructors, and that makes a difference.”

The success of the Cannington program reflects Royal Life Saving WA’s broader commitment to inclusive, community-led water safety education. These programs play a vital role in improving water safety outcomes for multicultural communities, particularly for families who may have had limited access to swimming lessons in the past. By delivering inclusive Swim and Survive lessons in culturally diverse communities, Royal Life Saving WA is supporting children and families to build the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to stay safe in and around water.

Royal Life Saving WA thanks the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport for its ongoing support of multicultural swimming and water safety programs across Western Australia.

To learn more about Royal Life Saving WA’s Multicultural Participation programs, visit: