International Lifeguard Bridging Course
Are you a qualified lifeguard, and intend coming to Australia to work. This page contains information to assist you.
When submitting your enquiry, please tell us:
- Which country you obtained your lifeguard qualification in.
- The name of your qualification and the organisation that issued it.
- When you completed your training and whether your qualification is current.
- Your previous lifeguarding experience.
- Whether you are currently living in Australia or planning to travel here.
Submit your enquiry today and take the next step towards becoming an Australian Pool Lifeguard.
Are you a qualified lifeguard from overseas and looking to work in Australia?
If you hold a lifeguard qualification from another country and are planning to live or work in Australia, Royal Life Saving Queensland can help you understand the training requirements to become an Australian Pool Lifeguard.
Australia has specific training and safety requirements for people working as Pool Lifeguards. While your overseas qualification and experience provide valuable skills and knowledge, you may need to complete additional training and assessment to meet Australian industry requirements.
Our International Lifeguard Bridging Course provides an opportunity for experienced overseas lifeguards to gain an Australian Pool Lifeguard qualification without necessarily completing the full training course.
What is a Lifeguard Bridging Course?
A bridging course is designed for people who already hold a lifeguard qualification from another country.
Rather than repeating all the training you have previously completed, the bridging process takes into consideration your existing qualifications, skills and practical experience.
You will undertake training and assessment relevant to Australian lifeguarding practices, including any additional knowledge or skills required to meet Australian standards.
The bridging course may be shorter and less expensive than completing a full Pool Lifeguard course.
Who can apply?
Our bridging course is intended for people who:
- Hold a current or previous lifeguard qualification obtained overseas.
- Have practical experience in lifeguarding or aquatic supervision.
- Want to obtain an Australian Pool Lifeguard qualification.
- Are legally entitled to undertake training in Australia.
Each enquiry is considered individually, and additional training or assessment may be required depending on your existing qualifications and experience.
How does the bridging process work?
Step 1 – Submit an enquiry
Contact Royal Life Saving Queensland and provide details of your overseas lifeguard qualifications, training and experience.
Step 2 – Review of your qualifications
Our training team will review the information you provide and advise whether a bridging course may be suitable for you.
Step 3 – Complete training and assessment
If eligible, you will undertake the required Australian training and practical assessments. These may include demonstrating your swimming, rescue, resuscitation and lifeguarding skills.
Step 4 – Obtain your Australian qualification
Once you have successfully completed all required training and assessments, you will be issued the relevant Australian qualification or certification.
CRICOS
Royal Life Saving Queensland is not registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). This means we cannot enrol international students who require training with a CRICOS-registered provider.
However, people who are already in Australia on an eligible visa, such as certain working holiday or work visas, may be able to undertake our training.
You must have a valid Unique Student Identifier (USI) to enrol in nationally recognised training.
Royal Life Saving Queensland does not provide visa advice, employment placement or visa sponsorship. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate visa and work rights (reference).
Course fees
Our current bridging course fees are:
- Pool Lifeguard Bridging Course: $250
- First Aid Course: $120
Course fees are payable at the time of enrolment. Additional training requirements, if applicable, will be discussed before enrolment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Visa to work in Australia?
Yes, please go to an Australian Government website to find out what visa you need. The following website may help you: www.dfat.gov.au/travel/australian-visas
Can you help me with a Visa?
No, please do not ask. We do not help with Visas.
Do I need a Visa to work?
Yes, to get a job in Australia your employer will want copy of your valid work visa.
Do I need anything else?
You will also need:
– A Tax File Number
– A Superannuation Account
– A Working with Children Clearance Card
What qualification will I need?
To work as a Pool Lifeguard:
– Pool Lifeguard Award
– First Aid
To work as a Swim Teacher:
– Swim & Water Safety Teacher Certificate
– Swim Teacher License
We can provide bridging course for qualified overseas lifeguards.
To work as an Ocean Lifeguard:
– Ocean Lifeguards are employed by Councils or Surf Life Saving, and training is offered by those organisations.
Will my existing qualification be recognised?
Generally not, even if you have an International Lifeguard Certificate.
Australian employers need to meet Australian Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S) and Aquatic Industry requirements which specify Australian qualifications. So whilst you may be very qualified and experienced, your employer may require you to have an Australian Qualification.
You can complete a full training course (like any untrained Australian) or complete a Bridging Course.
What is a bridging course?
A bridging course, is a course for overseas lifeguards, that is slightly shorter than a full course, and recognises your skills and knowledge. It is cheaper than a standards course.
How much does it cost?
Course Fees:
– Pool Lifeguard: $250.00
– First Aid: $120.00
Course fees must be paid at time of enrolment.