Swimming Peak Develops National Inclusion Plan
3 December 2013 at 2:38 pm
Swimming Australia is developing a National Inclusive Swimming Framework to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to participate in swimming and aquatic activities.
Swimming Australia is currently developing the Framework as part of a strategic commitment to guarantee the sport is accessible and welcoming to Australians who typically experience disadvantage when it comes to getting involved in sport and physical activity.
The peak body says the new concept is based on seven pillars of inclusion; access, attitude, choice, partnerships, participation, policy and opportunities, which were developed by Play by the Rules.
“The idea of the Framework is that it becomes an important practical tool to help the swimming and aquatic community identify how it can be more inclusive of people with a disability and people from different cultural backgrounds,” Swimming Australia CEO Mark Anderson said.
“It is important that everyone could enjoy swimming in an environment characterised by fairness, safety and respect.
“Swimming is a sport of national importance so ensuring all Australians have the opportunity to get involved is vital.
“This new Framework is an important evolution in Swimming Australia’s inclusion strategy and will shape Swimming Australia’s future operations and planning in this area.
“The Framework is designed to become an essential tool to assist organisations in their planning and operations, as well as provide a practical tool for clubs, learn to swim centres and other aquatic organisations to ensure our sport reflects our community values.”
To assist in the development of the Framework, Swimming Australia will begin hosting a seven-part webinar series this week, with each part focussing on one of the Pillars of Inclusion.
