Non-fatal drowning

The Action

The Goal

This research study aimed to improve our understanding of non-fatal drowning, particularly the impact of these incidents.

Priority Areas

• 1
  Priority Area: People
  Focus: Children (0-4 years)
• 2
  Priority Area: People
  Focus: Young males (15-29 years)
• 3
  Priority Area: People
  Focus: Older people (65+ years)
• 4
  Priority Area: Places
  Focus: Beaches, oceans & rocks
• 5
  Priority Area: Places
  Focus: Rivers & lakes
• 6
  Priority Area: Places
  Focus: Aquatic facilities
• 7
  Priority Area: Activities
  Focus: Boating & watercraft
• 8
  Priority Area: Activities
  Focus: Fishing & rock fishing
• 9
  Priority Area: Activities
  Focus: Diving & snorkelling
• 10
  Priority Area: Risk factors
  Focus: Swimming & water safety skills
• 11
  Priority Area: Risk factors
  Focus: Alcohol & drugs
• 12
  Priority Area: Risk factors
  Focus: Risk taking
• 13
  Priority Area: Populations
  Focus: Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples
• 14
  Priority Area: Populations
  Focus: Multicultural communities
• 15
  Priority Area: Populations
  Focus: Regional & remote communities

Why is this Project Important to the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030?

The Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030 highlights the importance of understanding both fatal and non-fatal drowning.

Key Steps to Make It Happen

1. 1. Data collection

   Data were obtained from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW) National Hospital Morbidity Database (NHMD).

2. 2. Data analysis

   Data were analysed to determine trends over time, as well as the impact of non-fatal drowning in Australia.

3. 3. Publication

   Two reports were published on the Royal Life Saving website to share the study findings and encourage practical next steps.

Achievements or Impacts To Date

Collaborating Organisations