Water Safety Week 2025 kicks off today at the Darwin Waterfront, launching a week-long program of activities across the Northern Territory from 14 - 20 September.
This year's theme, "Tell us your story!" encourages Territorians to share their own water safety journeys to inspire others to build skills and confidence around the water.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture, Jinson Charls, said water safety is a vital priority for all Territorians.
"Water is part of our way of life in the Territory and making sure children and families are safe around it is one of our highest priorities," Mr Charls said.
"Water Safety Week is about giving Territorians the tools, knowledge and confidence they need to stay safe.
"I encourage families to get involved in activities this week and take advantage of programs like the Finocchiaro CLP government's Learn to Swim Vouchers, which make it easier for children to gain vital water safety skills early."
The week begins with Splashfest, a free, family-friendly event at the Darwin Waterfront. Families can enjoy three hours of entertainment, interactive water safety activities, and the ever-popular NT Water Safety mascot, Boof the Barra. While children are having fun, parents will also pick up practical tips on keeping the whole family safe around water.
Water Safety Week is an annual initiative raising awareness about the importance of being safe in, on and around water. With the Northern Territory continuing to record one of the highest drowning rates per capita in Australia, the week highlights how vital these messages are for all Territorians.
The Northern Territory Government is committed to improving water safety outcomes through its partnership with the Royal Life Saving Society NT, providing $500,000 in funding.
Families with young children are also supported through the government's Learn to Swim Voucher Program, offering two $100 vouchers each year for children under five. These vouchers help families access early swimming and water safety programs, ensuring children develop life-saving skills from an early age.
Royal Life Saving NT Executive Director, Floss Roberts, said Water Safety Week was about bringing the whole community together to focus on safety.
"Water Safety Week is about bringing the whole community together to focus on the importance of staying safe in, on and around water. Every story shared this week can make a difference in preventing drownings," Ms Roberts said.
"The Territory has one of the highest drowning rates in Australia, which is why events like Splashfest are so important. They combine fun with vital learning, ensuring families take home life-saving messages.
"School holidays and the Wet Season are fast approaching and as they do so, people flock to pools and water holes to cool down. As part of this week's activities, we are reminding everybody that pool fences absolutely need to be checked regularly because the NT climate creates heavy duty wear and tear.
"We are highlighting children always need to be supervised when in and around water - especially around home pools and water holes. People always need to wear a lifejacket on a boat."
