A Splash of Colour Swimming will continue to transform lives through swimming, social inclusion and community empowerment. The program has secured almost $1 million in funding from the Albanese Labor Government’s Play Our Way program.

Announced today by Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, the funding is part of the Federal Government’s historic commitment to securing a lasting sporting legacy for women and girls. Over $200 million has been allocated nationally to support safe, inclusive, and accessible sporting opportunities — especially for those facing financial, social and cultural barriers to participation.

A Splash of Colour Swimming offers a water-based programs designed to address aquaphobia (fear of water), teach vital swimming skills, improve water safety, and promote better health outcomes. It also fosters social inclusion and creates employment pathways for CALD women within the aquatic sector.

The program offers more than swimming lessons — it fosters confidence, builds community with the intention to create a lasting connection to swimming and water-based activities.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“Swimming is an essential life skill, and everyone deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim and enjoy our beautiful beaches and pools safely.

“I’m incredibly excited to have secured this funding for A Splash of Colour Swimming, which will help make swimming more accessible to women who face social, cultural, and financial barriers.

“The program is a shining example of how we can build a stronger, more inclusive community for all here in Newcastle.”

Quotes attributable to Splash of Colour Swimming Founder Ennia Jones:

“This program is about more than learning how to swim — it’s about creating pathways to a lifelong love of swimming, improving water safety, and building a legacy of new swimmers and future role models from diverse communities.”