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Pool Lifeguard

ANZSCO 452414

A Pool Lifeguard ensures public safety by monitoring the pool, conducting patrols, providing first aid, and educating visitors on water safety.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a pool lifeguard

Get qualified to work as a pool lifeguard with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Pool Lifeguard generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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There has been an increase in worker numbers in this industry in recent years. There are currently 4,400 people working as a Pool Lifeguard in Australia compared to 3,500 five years ago. Pool Lifeguards may find work across all regions of Australia where large public pools are located.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’d like to work as a Pool Lifeguard, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Sport and Recreation. This course will give you the skills to work in places such as fitness centres or recreation centres. You could also consider a Certificate III in Sport and Recreation.

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Further reading

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

What can you do with a Certificate IV in Leisure and Health?

29th September 2020

Most popular sport courses

21st July 2022

Pool Lifeguard careers

A Pool Lifeguard ensure public safety at a swimming pool facility. You’ll conduct patrols around the pool area and monitor the water for people experiencing difficulties. You may have to come to the aid of people having problems in the water and might have to provide first aid. Pool Lifeguards may educate visitors on water safety issues and speak with people about unsafe behaviour in a pool environment.

Pool Lifeguards should have excellent observational skills and be able to focus for long periods of time. It’s important that you are physically fit and have a knowledge of first aid. Pool Lifeguards must be able to make safety a priority at all times. Depending on your workplace, you might have to work irregular hours including weekends and holidays.