Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) has been ranked among Australia’s most trusted charities, in the Charity RepTrak 2023 results. This result means SLSA has maintained a top reputation score exceeding 90 for three consecutive years, demonstrating sustained trust and support from the Australian public for SLSA’s mission of saving lives, creating great Australians, and building better communities.  

 

John Brennan, Head of Fundraising & Commercial at SLSA says being in the top five shows Australian’s trust of the Surf Life Saving movement is here to stay.  

 

“Since it was established in 1907, Surf Life Saving has grown to be an essential part of Australian culture and communities. This high score from RepTrak among 40 other highly valued Australian charities shows that Australians really do value what volunteer surf lifesavers contribute to their communities. It is always our goal to improve and innovate each year and we are pleased to see these efforts reflected in RepTrak’s results this year.”  

 

RepTrak's annual report ranks the top 40 Australian charities taking into consideration reputation drivers such as services, innovation, workplace, conduct, citizenship, leadership and cost management.  

 

Public opinion of SLSA from RepTrak’s survey participants was overwhelmingly positive, with some of the ‘Top of Mind’ associations collected in the survey revealing what is most valued about the organisation varies. Some of those surveyed recalled SLSA’s work in the public education space, others the iconic red and yellow, to Nippers programs, brave rescues and selfless volunteerism.  

In the 2022/23 year, surf lifesavers performed 9,297 rescues, provided 40,574 first aid treatments, and conducted more than 1.92 million preventative actions. Collectively volunteer surf lifesavers completed 1.4 million patrol hours. 

 

“We want all Australians to understand the incredible service volunteer surf lifesavers provide for the community, and in turn, inspire others to support the cause – whether that’s through volunteering their time, donating money, or simply sharing our water safety messages with friends and family. Everyone can support Surf Life Saving in their own way,” said Mr Brennan. 

 

A representative for RepTrak says SLSA’s reputation remains excellent and stable, currently holding a position in the top five among the BM40 charities. 

 

“RepTrak’s analysis of 23 factors shows the public continues to view SLSA as having a relevant purpose and is meeting the needs of those using and receiving its services. By making a meaningful contribution to communities around Australia, SLSA continues to maximise overall levels of trust, admiration, esteem and good feeling towards the organisation.” 

 

Surf Life Saving Australia is a unique not-for-profit community cause that exists though community donations, fundraising, corporate sponsorship and government grants.  

 

To find out how you can support SLSA’s mission of saving lives, visit slsfoundation.com.au