How much do swimming lessons cost in Australia?

Swimming is not just fun. It’s a life skill, a workout, and a way to improve overall well-being. Thanks to year-round access to public pools, beaches, and heated indoor facilities in Australia, swimming is accessible to all ages and fitness levels. 

Don’t know how to swim? Learning has never been easier. The average cost of swimming lessons in the country ranges from $14 to $80 per session, depending on class types and more. This guide breaks down key pricing factors further to help you plan for how much swimming lessons cost effortlessly.

What are the average costs of swimming lessons in Australia?

The average cost of swimming lessons in Australia ranges from $14 to $80 per session, depending on the type of lesson and whether it’s a group or private class. Here’s a detailed breakdown by lesson type to help you compare options.

*Note: The lower end of the price range is for group lessons, and the higher end is for private lessons.

Parent and baby swimming lessons

A parent and baby during a beginner swimming lesson. (Source: iStock)

These lessons help parents guide their infants through early water activities. The focus is on using playful exercises to build confidence and motor skills. The average cost of swimming lessons for this category ranges from $23 to $30 per session.

Kids swimming lessons

Kids swimming lessons focus on developing fundamental swimming skills like floating, breathing, and basic strokes. Lessons cost between $21 and $35 per session, making them a budget-friendly way for children to get comfortable in the water. 

Adult swimming lessons

Adults taking part in swimming lessons in a pool. (Source: iStock)

Whether you’re learning for the first time or have been swimming for years, lessons designed for adults focus on water confidence, stroke correction, and fitness. Typically, adult swimming lessons cost $23 to $35 per session, with tailored programmes adding a little bit to the bill.

Diving lessons

Diving lessons teach essential skills, including proper board control, body positioning, and underwater entry techniques. These lessons typically cost between $25 and $50 per session, with options for both recreational and competitive diving. Participants often start with poolside dives before progressing to a more complex manoeuvre.

Squad training or competitive swimming lessons

Swim squad doing structured training in the pool. (Source: iStock)

For young athletes or competitive swimmers, squad training builds endurance, speed, and race strategy. These sessions cost $14 to $30 per session, with group settings lowering the price significantly. These programmes prepare swimmers for competitions through structured drills and frequent practice.

Specialised training or athletic swimming lessons

Tailored for serious swimmers and athletes, specialised training covers stroke refinement, race preparation, and stamina-building. Depending on the coach’s experience and the programme’s intensity, costs range from $26 to $80 per session. High-level training can also be offered by elite instructors or competitive swim clubs.

How do these types of swimming lessons differ?

The following outlines the core differences between the various types of swimming lessons available:

• Parent and baby swimming lessons: Introduce water familiarity through playful, safety-focused exercises for infants.

• Kids swimming lessons: Develop basic skills like floating and strokes in a fun, social environment.

• Adult swimming lessons: Tailored to individual goals, from beginners learning water confidence to advanced stroke correction.

• Diving lessons: Teach controlled dives and underwater entries, ranging from beginner dives to competitive techniques.

• Squad training: Focuses on endurance, speed, and competition preparation through structured sessions and drills.

• Specialised training: Advanced programmes for athletes, focusing on technique optimisation and performance under experienced coaches.

What factors affect swimming lesson prices?

If you’ve ever wondered how much do swimming lessons cost and why the prices vary so much, you’re not alone. The cost not only depends on the type of lesson you choose, but also on several factors like the location, instructor qualifications, and whether you’re booking private or group sessions. Let’s break it down.

Swimming school stages in Australia

Swimming schools in Australia follow a progression system designed to develop water safety, endurance, and stroke mastery based on the National Swimming and Water Safety Framework. Programmes begin with baby swimming lessons for infants aged 6 months to 2 and a half years old, costing $23 to $30 per session. These lessons focus on water familiarisation, floating, and breath control. Here, parents help babies gain confidence through play-based activities.

As children grow, they progress to toddler and preschool swimming lessons for ages 2 and a half to 5 years, priced at $20 to $30 per session. At this stage, they’re introduced to basic survival skills, including floating, safe water entry, and early freestyle and backstroke movements.

Next are children’s swimming lessons for school-age kids (6+ years) at around $25 to $35 per session. Here, kids learn essential strokes such as freestyle, backstroke, and basic breaststroke, as well as water treading and basic rescue techniques. 

More advanced swimmers can join intermediate stages (sometimes called development squads), which are priced at $28 to $37 per session. These stages build on core strokes and focus on longer distances and technique refinement.

For adults, swimming lessons are available at various levels, from beginner to advanced, with costs typically between $24 and $30 per session. Beginner classes cover basic floating and water safety for beginners. Meanwhile, advanced swimmers work on refining strokes and improving swimming efficiency. 

Competitive training begins with junior squads, which cost $25 to $35 per session, where young athletes practice their strokes, flip turns, and race starts. More experienced swimmers move to advanced squads, priced at $28 to $37 per session, where they hone their speed, stamina, and race tactics.

Finally, specialised athletic trainings offer high-performance coaching on strokes and overall endurance. These sessions cost between $30 and $80 per session, based on programme difficulty and expertise required.

Location

*Including both group and private lessons

Where you live plays a major role in determining swimming lessons’ prices in Australia. Metropolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne charge higher rates, with lessons costing between $30 and $120 per session due to demand and the higher cost of living. Private and specialised lessons often fall on the higher end of the scale, while group lessons offer more affordable options.

In contrast, regional cities like Geelong and Ipswich offer more budget-friendly prices starting at $25 per session for group lessons. Public pools and community programmes dominate these areas, so they’re ideal for families and people seeking cheaper lessons. Locations like Canberra and Adelaide, on the other hand, offer lessons that cost between $20 and $80 per session, but also have private 1:1 coaching available at competitive rates.

For those in Brisbane or Perth, expect mid-range pricing from $28 to $130 per session. Family discounts and multi-child enrolments commonly reduce overall costs.

Instructor qualifications and experience

A swimming instructor providing directions poolside. (Source: iStock)

An instructor’s level of experience also directly impacts swimming classes for adults’ prices and how much swimming lessons for kids cost. Entry-level instructors with 1-2 years of experience generally teach group lessons, earning $25 to $40 per hour. More experienced instructors, such as intermediates (3-5 years) or senior-level coaches (5+ years), handle private lessons and competitive training, charging between $40 and $120 per hour.

Most Australian instructors are certified by AUSTSWIM or Swim Australia, with additional requirements like First Aid, CPR, and Working with Children checks. Those teaching kids often receive special training in early childhood education to guide younger swimmers as well. Meanwhile, instructors for elite swimmers typically hold advanced certifications, such as those from SWIM Coaches & Teachers Australia (ASCTA).

Swimming teachers working with children with disabilities or sensory needs have certifications like Access and Inclusion or Autism Swim. Their expertise allows them to tailor lessons for sensory management and physical accommodations, which can drive prices higher. 

Duration and frequency of lessons

The length and how often you take lessons can directly affect how much a private swim lesson costs or what you’ll pay for group classes. One-to-one swimming lessons typically last 30 to 60 minutes and cost between $70 and $125 per session, depending on what you’re working on and the instructor. Taking private lessons more frequently, like 2–3 times a week, can be pricey but will help you improve faster.

Semi-private lessons (1:2 or 1:3) are a middle-ground option, costing $55 to $73 per session for 30 to 60 minutes. These work well for siblings or friends who want personal attention but don’t want to pay full private rates. On the flip side, group lessons last 30 to 45 minutes and cost around $25 to $35 per session, making them a great fit for beginners or families on a budget.

For more serious swimmers, squad training involves 45 to 90-minute sessions multiple times a week, with prices ranging from $20 to $37 per session or $150 to $250 per month. If you want a quick swimming skills boost, holiday intensives are a good option, with daily lessons over 5 to 10 days costing $90 to $400 per programme.

Special facilities or amenities

A woman relaxing in a warm water pool after swimming. (Source: iStock)

The availability of special facilities or amenities can impact swimming lesson costs, too. After all, building and installing a swimming pool is no easy or cheap task. It’s even more expensive to set up plunge pools and tubs.

Lessons held in heated pools typically cost more due to the high maintenance involved in keeping water at ideal temperatures for infants and young children. Swim schools in colder regions, such as Melbourne and Canberra, often rely on these pools year-round.

For individuals with disabilities, adaptive pools with wheelchair ramps, pool lifts, and sensory-friendly settings are essential, but their infrastructure increases costs. These pools can also provide temperature-controlled water and quieter environments, ideal for swimmers with mobility or sensory needs.

Some advanced swim schools also feature plunge pools or hydrotherapy pools for recovery and muscle relaxation, particularly for athletes. These facilities are common in competitive programmes, where the cost of building plunge pools and maintaining them is reflected in the pricing. 

Additional costs

When calculating how much swimming lessons are, don’t forget about extra fees that can add up. Most swim schools charge a registration fee of $10 to $50, covering administrative tasks, scheduling, and insurance. Some schools bundle this fee into initial payment plans, while others offer discounts for multiple enrollments. Even if lessons take place at public pools, you can still expect pool entry fees of $5 to $15 per visit.

Swim gear is another expense to factor in. Basic items like swimsuits, goggles, and swim caps can cost $20 to $150 or more, depending on the brand and equipment required. For competitive swimmers, advanced gear like racing suits or resistance bands could raise costs significantly, especially if ongoing replacements are needed.

Some schools require swim assessments or progress evaluations, which cost around $30 to $70. These assessments help place students in the correct skill level or programmes. Plus, cancellation fees of $10 to $40 per missed lesson may apply if you cancel without sufficient notice or miss a make-up session.

For competitive swimmers, swim meets and competitions often come with entry fees ranging from $50 to $200 per event. And if you opt for holiday camps and intensive programmes, they can typically cost $120 to $400 per week. 

What are the benefits of swimming lessons?

A woman enjoying her time during a swimming lesson. (Source: iStock)

Swimming lessons teach more than just staying safe in the water. For kids, they build coordination, strength, and teamwork. Adults get to improve their fitness, relieve stress, and overcome water-related fears while gaining confidence. Here are other things you get out of swimming classes:

Water safety and drowning prevention

Swimming lessons teach essential survival skills like floating, treading water, and safe exits. Gaining these skills reduces the risk of drowning by up to 88%. 

Physical fitness and rehabilitation

Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens muscles, builds endurance, and improves flexibility. Kids benefit from better coordination and physical development, while adults find swimming ideal for joint pain or injury recovery. 

Cognitive and emotional development

Water activities stimulate the brain, helping kids improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. It also teaches social interaction and teamwork through group lessons. For adults, swimming helps reduce stress and improve mental health by promoting relaxation and releasing endorphins.

Lifelong recreational and competitive opportunities

Knowing how to swim opens up plenty of opportunities to enjoy an aquatic lifestyle. From casual water activities like surfing to competitive water sports, swimming lessons lay the foundation for years of recreational or professional growth. 

A holistic approach to learning

Swimming lessons complement other activities that promote well-rounded development. For example, swimming classes can enhance motor skills alongside other sports like martial arts, tennis, or basketball. It can also be an excellent way to promote physical fitness among kids who have just been starting mental-focused hobbies like playing the piano or guitar.

What are some ways to save on swimming lesson costs?

A woman teaching kids how to swim in a class setting. (Source: iStock)

With a little planning, you can reduce swimming class prices while still ensuring your child or yourself gets quality instruction. From group lessons to bulk discounts, here are seven practical tips to help you save:

1. Opt for group lessons: Group lessons are cheaper because the cost is shared among multiple students. For beginners and young children, they often provide sufficient attention to learn the basics without the higher price tag of private sessions.

2. Enrol in subsidised programmes: Government or council-funded programmes offer affordable swimming lessons, especially during school holidays. Families with financial needs or students with disabilities may also qualify for discounts or funding through programmes like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

3. Purchase multi-lesson packages or seasonal passes: Many swim schools offer discounts when you buy lessons in bulk. For example, purchasing a 10-week term can reduce the per-session cost by 10–20% compared to paying for casual lessons.

4. Take advantage of family or multi-student discounts: If you enrol multiple children or attend more than one lesson per week, check for family discounts. Some schools reduce rates per lesson for siblings or frequent attendees.

5. Reuse or buy second-hand swim gear: Swim gear, like goggles, kickboards, and swimsuits, can be costly, so consider buying second-hand or reusing items when possible. Many schools have swap programmes or lost-and-found bins where families can find reusable gear for free or at a discount.

6. Choose holiday intensives over year-round lessons: Holiday intensives provide daily lessons over 5–10 consecutive days, helping students make faster progress in a short time. This can reduce long-term costs by limiting the need for ongoing lessons.

7. Take advantage of make-up lessons: Missed classes can add to expenses if you have to book extra lessons, but many schools allow free make-up sessions if you schedule them in advance. This helps you avoid paying for lessons twice.

How to choose the right swimming instructor or programmes?

A swimming instructor smiling while conducting a lesson in the pool. (Source: iStock)

Finding the right instructor or programmes can make a huge difference in how quickly and safely you or your child learns to swim. The right fit depends on factors like experience, teaching style, and class sizes. Here’s what to consider before diving in:

• Check instructor certifications and training. Make sure they have the right qualifications to teach swimming and handle emergencies. Certifications from organisations like SwimAus and Royal Life Saving Australia are good indicators.

• Evaluate instructor experience. Entry-level instructors (1–2 years) are ideal for beginners, while senior instructors (5+ years) are better suited for advanced swimmers or private lessons. If you’re enrolling infants or students with disabilities, choose instructors with experience in early childhood or adaptive teaching.

• Consider teaching style and personality. An instructor’s approach can affect how comfortable and motivated a student feels. For beginners, choose someone patient and supportive, while competitive swimmers benefit from firm, goal-oriented coaching. Programmes that incorporate games and interactive teaching work well for kids and toddlers, too.

• Ask for feedback from other parents or students. Hearing from others can give you valuable insights. Check online reviews or speak to parents whose children have attended the same programme. Ask questions about the instructor’s reliability, teaching effectiveness, and how well they handled different learning speeds.

• Assess class sizes and instructor-to-student ratios. Smaller class sizes mean more individual attention and faster progress. For toddlers and beginners, look for ratios like 1 instructor per 4-6 students. 

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