The Surf Life Saving Foundation
About
The Surf Life Saving Foundation (now operating as Surf Life Saving Giving) is the national fundraising capability within Surf Life Saving Australia, supporting volunteer surf lifesavers across Australia's coastline and inland communities. The Foundation raises funds through donations, monthly giving programs (Guardians of the Surf), bequests, workplace giving, and Surf Life Saving Lotteries to provide training, equipment, and operational support for volunteer lifesaving services.
Tips for Applicants
The Foundation operates primarily as a fundraising entity that distributes funds to Surf Life Saving clubs and state entities rather than accepting external grant applications. Local Surf Life Saving clubs can access free support through the Grant Seeking Unit for help with securing external government and private grants. Contact the Grant Seeking Unit directly at (07) 3177 5855 to discuss club funding needs. For corporate partnerships or workplace giving programs, contact giving@sls.com.au or call 1800 642 925.
Giving Philosophy
Focused on achieving zero preventable deaths in Australian waters through sustainable funding of volunteer surf lifesaving services. Operates as a dedicated fundraising business unit within Surf Life Saving Australia, returning almost $11.9 million to Surf Life Saving entities in FY24/25. Prioritizes grassroots support through their Grant Seeking Unit, which assists local clubs with securing government and private grant funding at no cost. Maintains transparency with fundraising administration costs representing only 4.31% of total revenue in FY24/25.
Giving History
ACNC Financial History
| Year | Grants Given | Revenue | Total Assets | Net Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY2023 | $7.5M | $46.2M | $15.1M | $8.5M |
| FY2022 | $6.3M | $38.7M | $15.1M | $8.6M |
| FY2021 | $7.3M | $33.3M | $14.4M | $8.0M |
| FY2020 | $6.6M | $30.3M | $15.4M | $9.5M |
| FY2019 | $4.8M | $33.7M | $12.3M | $9.6M |
| FY2018 | $6.0M | $34.8M | $16.0M | $8.8M |
| FY2017 | $6.2M | $35.8M | $14.2M | $7.7M |
| 7yr total | $44.8M | Source: ACNC Annual Information Statements | ||
Programs & Opportunities (3)
3 open · sorted by deadline · last checked 27 April 2026 (today)
Surf Life Saving Innovation Fund
The Surf Life Saving Innovation Fund supports bold ideas from volunteer surf lifesavers to develop solutions that enhance coastal safety, improve training outcomes, and reduce preventable deaths in Australian waters. It funds pilot programs and breakthrough solutions, including those focused on diversity, training, and environmental impact.
Guardians of the Surf (Monthly Giving)
Monthly donation program to help train new surf lifesavers, improve volunteer skills, and replace equipment exposed to harsh Australian conditions
Grant Seeking Unit Support
Free grant research, writing, and application support for Surf Life Saving clubs seeking funding for equipment, youth development, community education, mental health initiatives, and capital works projects. Contact: (07) 3177 5855