Become a Surf Lifesaver

Every Australian can help save a life.

Surf lifesavers are ordinary people who have stepped up to the challenge of helping to keep our beaches safe. It is a satisfying, fun and rewarding experience.

What is a Surf Lifesaver?

A surf lifesaver is a trained volunteer that patrols beaches. They undertake many roles, including providing safety information to the public, administering first aid and emergency care, and performing aquatic rescues. 

What’s Involved?

There’s a place for everyone in surf life saving to use their skills and follow their interests on and off the beach. You are welcome, no matter your age, gender identity, sexual orientation, cultural background, faith, or ability. If you wish to become a lifesaver and don the iconic red and yellow, these are the steps to take:

  1. Join your local club:

    South Australia is home to 22 clubs, including 21 surf life saving clubs, all along the metro coast, Fleurieu Peninsula, and regionally in Whyalla, Beachport and Robe. Each club offers a unique community, programs and fee structure.

  2. Obtain a recognised surf life saving award

    You’ll receive extensive training from other club members and learn valuable skills working as a trained volunteer.

  3. Protect and save lives!

    Once you have met specific training requirements, you will spend time patrolling South Australian beaches on weekends and public holidays during the surf lifesaving season.

How do I sign up?

Start your lifesaving journey by signing up online, contacting Surf Life Saving SA on 08 8354 6900 or contacting your local club.

Member SLS Award Courses

Our member courses are designed to provide surf lifesavers with a structured approach to advance their skills and knowledge. No matter what pathway you wish to take through your Surf Lifesaving journey, our courses can help you to achieve your lifesaving goals.

Pathways include:

  • Rescue Water Craft Operator

  • Silver Medallion Aquatic Rescue

  • Silver Medallion IRB Driver

  • Surf Rescue Certificate

  • RPAS Pilot

  • Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Crew

  • Advanced Resuscitation Techniques

  • Bronze Medallion

  • CPR

  • IRB Crew

  • JRB Crew

  • Radio Operator

Want to get involved with Surf Life Saving without getting wet? 

No problem. There are lots of other ways you can help your local Surf Life Saving Club keep doing what they do. Find out how you can help here.