Children and families across in the Dubbo electorate will benefit from the expansion of the NSW Government’s learn to swim voucher program.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said from December 1, the $100 ‘First Lap’ vouchers will be extended to cover children in kindergarten this year, or who are starting kindergarten in 2022.
“Because of COVID restrictions, our kindy kids have missed a crucial window of being able to develop the skills they need to stay safe in the water,” Mr Saunders said.
“It’s really important they don’t miss out, so we’re making sure they can also access the First Lap voucher program now that our pools are back open for lessons.”
Under the ‘First Lap’ program, eligible children from the Dubbo electorate can access a $100 voucher for swimming lessons with an approved provider, with businesses able to register for it from next month.
The NSW Government will invest $54 million over two years in the program, which will also ease cost of living pressures for families.
“Summer in Australia is all about swimming, at your local pool, beach or river. We know families have been doing it tough during the COVID lockdown and the First Lap program will also ensure family budgets aren’t stretched so our kids have these crucial skills,” Mr Saunders said.
Families can apply for the First Lap vouchers from 1 December, through Service NSW.
For more information, visit: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/firstlap