Watch Around Water is a leading water safety and supervision program designed to protect children at public swimming pools across Western Australia. Launched in 2004 in response to tragic drowning incidents involving young children, this program was created by The Leisure Institute of Western Australia (LIWA) Aquatics and Royal Life Saving Society WA to raise awareness and improve supervision standards at aquatic facilities.
By encouraging parents, guardians, and pool staff to actively supervise children — especially those under 10 years old — Watch Around Water helps reduce drowning risks and aquatic injuries. The program is based on national and international best practices and has been successfully implemented in many metropolitan and regional pools throughout WA.
With over 20 years of proven impact, Watch Around Water remains a trusted community-driven initiative promoting safe swimming environments. Its ongoing success comes from clear supervision policies, widespread support across local pools, and a shared commitment to keeping children safe around water.
The Watch Around Water program is proudly supported by LIWA Aquatics.
YOUR CHILD. YOUR FOCUS.
When your child is at the pool, they need your full attention. Active supervision means keeping eyes on them at all times — because even a moment of distraction can be dangerous. Make your child your focus every time you visit the pool.
SUPERVISION POLICIES
- Children under 5 years must be accompanied into the centre by a responsible adult (aged 16+ years) and always supervised within arm’s reach. If the child is in the water, you must be too.
- Children under 10 years must be accompanied into the centre by a responsible adult (aged 16+ years) and supervised within line of sight. Parent/guardians must have clear, constant and direct access to the child at all times.
- Unsupervised children will be removed from the water to ensure safety.
Some pools may apply stricter rules. Check the local pool’s policies before visiting.
Find your local Watch Around Water Pool
Looking for a safe and family-friendly swimming pool? Watch Around Water endorsed facilities are committed to keeping children safe by promoting active supervision and child-safe environments. Use our pool finder to locate your nearest participating centre and enjoy peace of mind knowing you're supporting water safety in your community.
Resources for pools
Are you an existing Watch Around Water pool or wanting to get involved? We provide everything necessary to successfully run this program at your facility.
