When Marissa Kinsele became a parent she realised the true value in swimming lessons – and the expense.
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The Basin View resident has started a petition in the hopes of having the Australian Government subside swimming lessons, in the same format as day care rebates.
In just over a week the petition has received more than 6000 online signatures.
“The general response has been really positive and if nothing else, it’s raising awareness for water safety and gets people talking about the amount of drownings we’ve already had this summer,” Mrs Kinsele said.
Mrs Kinsele’s almost four-year-old daughter Grace attends swimming lessons and will soon be joined by her one-year-old brother Jack.
“Children have to know that water is fun but something that can be dangerous.
- Marissa Kinsele
The lessons come at a cost of $140 a term per child.
“I’ve had some people say ‘if you can’t afford it, don’t have children’ but it’s not until you become a parent that you realise the true expense of everything involved,” Mrs Kinsele said.
“There are families that simply cannot afford lessons at all.”
Along with lessons subsidies, Mrs Kinsele is also campaigning for water awareness videos, gift vouchers and government campaigns and slogans.
Growing up around water, Mrs Kinsele has fond memories of beautiful beaches, backyard pools, splashing mates and balancing on a pool noodle.
Whilst she wants the same for all Australian children, she said it’s crucial it doesn’t come at the ultimate price.
“Children have to know that water is fun but something that can be dangerous,” she said.
Mrs Kinsele is hoping the signatures continue to roll in but plans to present it to Member for Gilmore Ann Sudmalis and Member for Kiama Gareth Ward when she reaches the 10,000 mark.
Sign the petition here.