Where ideas go to save more lives

Lifesavers pulling on red and yellow caps

Surf Life Saving Innovation

The Innovation Fund fuels bold ideas that keep our volunteer surf lifesavers safer, smarter, and stronger — from pilot programs to breakthrough solutions.

What we mean by innovation?

Innovation isn’t technology for its own sake — it’s ideas tested in the real world that make lifesaving more effective and sustainable. Every innovation gives our volunteers better tools, smarter insights, and safer ways to save lives.

Why we invest in innovation

For decades, volunteer surf lifesavers have relied on experience and courage. Today, innovation gives them an edge. From new training approaches to smarter rescue support systems — the Innovation Fund helps bridge a good idea and an operational game changer.

Projects powered by the Innovation Fund are trialled across clubs and services, helping volunteer surf lifesavers be prepared, protected, and proactive.

Innovation highlights

Jet Rescue Board

A fully electric, high-performance rescue craft engineered for rapid response and reliability in demanding ocean conditions. Capable of reaching 0–50 km/h in just 5 seconds, it helps surf lifesavers reach people in distress faster, safer, and with greater confidence.

Ampol In-Store Fundraiser

A nationwide community partnership that turns everyday moments into lifesaving impact. Funds raised equip volunteers with advanced training in coastal and remote rescue, emergency response, and flood and swift-water techniques — ensuring teams are prepared for emergencies across Australia.

Fuel the next big lifesaving idea

When you support the Innovation Fund, you’re helping ideas go from concept to lifesaving reality — because every improvement in training, equipment, or safety systems helps return someone home.

Where ideas turn into impact

Innovation projects aren’t just theory — they’re tested, evaluated, and scaled with volunteers and clubs across Australia. Many start small but scale fast if they save time, risk, or lives.
Surf Life Saving Giving ensures Innovation Fund dollars go toward ideas with real testing, feedback loops, and lifesaver involvement at every step.

Because every idea that saves a life starts with someone curious enough to try. Thank you for exploring Innovation with us.