Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) has had a very successful partnership with Japan Life Saving Association (JLA) since 2007. In 2014, JLA had invited Australian Lifesavers to Japan as part of the Australia-Japan Exchange Program. This program is aimed to enhance JLA’s efforts in water safety education by utilising Australian Lifesavers experience through an exchange program. JLA values the importance of Australian Lifesavers as key advocates in promoting water safety, improving lifesaving practices, and raising awareness through community engagement. Call for nominations for the opportunity to participate in a volunteer lifesaver Japan exchange program.
Program: Iwai Seaside Camps
Duration: 27 Days
Date: 17 July – 12 August 2026 (potentially 16 August 2026)
Please Click Here for the Surf Life Saving Australia – Circular
Purpose of the Exchange
• To enable JLA Lifesavers to learn how SLSA Lifesavers deliver water safety education to
local students.
• To foster and strengthen relationships and collaboration between lifesavers from both
countries.
• To enable SLSA Lifesavers to learn how JLA Lifesaving operations, training and water
safety education is operated and delivered in strengthening and fostering new ideas in
Australia.
In addition to participating in the Iwai Seaside Program, some SLSA Lifesavers take the
opportunity to extend their stay to take part in surf patrol activities with local Surf Life Saving
Clubs, further contributing to knowledge sharing and strengthening international cooperation.
Program Details
Program Iwai Seaside Camps
Date 17 July 2026 to 12 / 16 August 2026*
*Note these are the dates of the program, participants will have to arrive prior.
Duration 27 days – 31 days*
*Note: Additional travel time may be required as part of the program. Participants may also choose to arrive
earlier or stay after the activity at their own expense.
Who
Seeking four (4) members to attend. Ideally looking for two (2) male and two (2) female members.
Activity description
To be educating and taking Japanese junior high school students through basic skills for water safety and survival.
***SLSA, alongside the JLA are working to see if we can add a Patrolling component at the conclusion of the Iwai Seaside Camp (approximately 12 August to 16 August). As part of the application, please let us know if you would be available for this component. JLA look to have this part of the program confirmed Mid to late May 2026.
Requirements
• Be a minimum of 20 years of age.
• Experience as a lifeguard or in senior roles on patrol.
• Have some experience in teaching junior lifesaving skills.
• Must have a current passport.
• Hold current SLS awards3 Ideally would have the following
• Eager and passionate with lifesaving spirits.
• Positive in local cultures and able to communicate with local members.
• Can speak and understand the Japanese language or at least try to learn Japanese.
• Understands or prepared to understand the working cultures in Japan and work and beprepared to work full-time during the period.
Notes
• Please be aware that the exchange rate between the Australian Dollar (AUD) and Japanese Yen (JPY) may fluctuate before and during your travel. These changes can impact the value of your money while in Japan.
• Attendees will receive compensation for activities of approximately $50-55 AUD per day
(JPY6,000/Day).
• SLSA will fund and assist in the process of purchasing flights once participants are selected.
• Meals and local stays will be provided by Japan Lifesaving Association. Excluding out of hours personal entertainment etc.
• Insurances are provided by SLSA.4
Details to apply
If interested in the Japan Exchange Program, please complete the Expression of Interest form via the JotForm link by 23 May 2026.
Japan Exchange Program Expression of interest form
Note: All successful applicants must be endorsed by their State/Territory body. Please be aware that your club may also be contacted for endorsement.
More information
Further details and enquiries can be directed to: SLSA Coastal Safety Team: lifesaving@sls.com.au
