Industry Update: Australian Aquatic & Recreation Workforce Guide

Australian Census

One simple action can make a lasting difference for our industry.

On Tuesday 11 August 2026, Australians will complete the national Census. While it only takes a few minutes, the way our workforce records its occupation has the potential to influence how governments understand, support and invest in the aquatic and recreation industry for years to come.

Aquatic & Recreation Institute NSW, in consultation with industry representatives from across Australia, have developed the Australian Aquatic & Recreation Workforce Guide – 2026 Australian Census to help create a consistent approach to reporting occupations across our sector.

Why is this important?

Across Australia, organisations often use different job titles for the same role. For example, one employer may use Swim Teacher, while another uses Learn to Swim Instructor. Likewise, roles such as Duty Manager or Operations Coordinator don't always have an obvious Census occupation classification.

Without a consistent approach, the true size and diversity of our workforce could be underrepresented in Census data.

This new guide recommends a consistent Census occupation title and Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) occupation code for many of the common roles found within aquatic and recreation facilities. By using the same classifications across the country, we can build a far more accurate picture of our industry.

Why it matters

Consistent Census data collection will help:

• Better demonstrate the size and value of Australia's aquatic and recreation workforce.
• Improve Government understanding of workforce trends and emerging skill needs.
• Strengthen advocacy for increased investment in our industry.
• Support inclusion of key occupations on National and State Skills Priority Lists.
• Provide stronger evidence to inform workforce planning, training and future policy.

How you can help

We encourage every aquatic and recreation organisation across Australia to:

• Share the Workforce Guide with all employees prior to Census Day.
• Encourage staff to use the recommended occupation title and ABS occupation code that best reflects their primary role.
• Promote a consistent approach across your organisation and networks.

Click the Logos below to read over an Industry National approach to the upcoming census.