While Swimming Australia implements the Australian Swim Coach Licence, the Development Coaching Course remains the minimum requirement to become a recognised Australian Swim Coach. The Australian Swim Coach Course will replace the Development Coaching Course in 2026. Coaches who complete the Development Coaching Course will not be required to complete any gap training when the new course is introduced.
If you have been advised that you need to upskill in 2026, you are encouraged to enrol in and commence the Development Coaching Course as early as possible. All information outlined below remains current, with further details about the new course to be shared in 2026.
Australia’s success in swimming is built on the commitment of coaches working across clubs, schools and community programs nationwide. This course provides a strong foundation for coaches at all stages, delivering a nationally consistent approach aligned with the Swimming Australia National Coaching Framework.
Whether you are supporting a local squad or aspiring to higher-level coaching, the Development Coaching Course equips you with the core skills needed to coach safely, confidently and effectively, from grassroots through to performance pathways.
What You Will Learn
The course builds core competencies across six key areas:
- Coaching Fundamentals
Understanding your role as a coach and the standards expected under the SANCF. - Swimmer Wellbeing and Safeguarding
Ensuring every swimmer is safe, supported, and protected in your coaching environment. - Planning and Delivering Training Sessions
Creating simple, effective session plans and delivering them with confidence. - Technical Elements of Swimming
Learning the essential movement and stroke patterns that underpin competitive swimming. - Communication and Engagement
Building positive relationships, giving effective feedback and creating a motivating environment. - Risk Management and Safety Awareness
Supervising safely, identifying hazards and responding appropriately in your coaching space.
These capabilities form the national foundation for every Australian Licenced Swim Coach.
What to expect from the new Australian Swim Coach Course
A Modern, Learner-Centred Course
When rolled out nationally in 2026, the Australian Swim Coach Course will blend online learning, live virtual instruction, and on-deck practical experience, giving new coaches the chance to learn, apply and refine essential coaching skills. The course is designed to be highly engaging, interactive and supportive; reflecting what modern coaches need to succeed.
Key Changes:
- New course materials
- No sign-off from an Advanced or Performance coach – a new, easier, more supportive process will be released.
- Increased opportunities for connection amongst the coaching community
- More opportunities for support and guidance
Pathway to Licencing
After completing the course, you will be eligible to activate your Australian Swim Coach Licence. This allows you to begin coaching and provides you with insurance, support and continued access to SPLASH Hub, where you’ll find a range of resources and further training options.
You will also be required to maintain compliance, including:
- WWCC
- CPR
- Sport Integrity Australia education
Who Can Enrol
You can enrol in the Australian Swim Coach Course if you:
- are 16 years of age
- hold an approved pre-requisite qualification
- have an interest in coaching swimmers at any level
This course suits individuals beginning their coaching journey or transitioning from teaching and other aquatic roles.
Why This Course Matters
- It sets one national standard for all new coaches.
- It strengthens Australia’s coaching pipeline from grassroots to international representation.
- It ensures all coaches, wherever they work, are safe, confident, and prepared.
- It protects swimmers and supports coaches through a structured transition.
- It reflects the modern expectations of Australian sport and child-safe practice.
- It ensures Australia’s legacy of producing exceptional swimmers through strong coaching foundations continues.
Whether your goal is to coach at your local club or to stand on deck at an international meet, the Australian Swim Coach Course is your first step into a nationally recognised, supported pathway.
How to Enrol
- Complete an endorsed pre-requisite
- Log in or create your Swim Central account
- Select the Development Coaching Course
- Book your webinar and practical workshop
- Begin your online learning
2026 course enrolments open Monday 17 December 2025.
