Mr NORTHE (Morwell): I would also like to highlight an issue in relation to inconsistencies in the application of the COVID rules and associated safety concerns with respect to learn to swim classes. At the moment outdoor pools can be open and it doesn’t seem to make any logical sense that indoor pools remain closed for the purposes of swimming lessons. As has been expressed to me by concerned swimming instructors and parents of young children – in the last two months, 5 children aged 2 years and under have died from drowning in Victoria. The lack of access to accredited training may exacerbate these devastating occurrences into the future. As we approach summer, I cannot help but feel that we have not supported young Victorians in learning this vital life-skill, and sincerely hope that the Government is looking closely at this risk as part of their restrictions and roadmaps moving forward and as we approach the warmer months.
