complaints and concerns

A smiling young woman in a yellow athletic jacket and red shorts stands outdoors, holding a yellow flag on a pole near a body of water during daytime.

Raising concerns and supporting our members

At Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST), creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all members is a priority.

We encourage members to raise concerns where something doesn’t feel right. Speaking up helps clubs address issues early, support those involved, and maintain positive club environments across the state.

All complaints are managed in line with the Surf Life Saving Australia Complaints Policy, ensuring a fair, consistent and transparent approach.

Lodge a Formal complaint
Two lifeguards on the beach, dressed in yellow and red uniforms, holding flags, with a rescue vehicle in the foreground, and the ocean and cloudy sky in the background.

our commitment

SLST is committed to:

  • Providing safe and welcoming environments for all members

  • Handling concerns fairly and consistently

  • Supporting members through the complaints process

  • Continuously improving how we respond to issues

Raising a concern takes courage — and it plays an important role in strengthening our clubs and communities.

Read the Complaints Policy and Guidelines
A young man dressed in a yellow surf rescue uniform with red text and logos, including DHL and Isuzu, holds a yellow rescue kit and stands outdoors near a red rescue ATV. He is wearing a red and yellow helmet and looks into the distance.

What to expect
volunteers and clubs

When you raise a concern, you can expect:

  • Clear and accessible reporting options

  • Respectful and confidential handling of information

  • Fair and impartial assessment

  • A focus on resolving issues appropriately and promptly

Our goal is that concerns are resolved in a way that is fair, respectful and focused on positive outcomes.

How to raise a concern

If you have a concern or complaint, there are a number of ways to seek support and guidance.

  • A woman in a yellow rescue uniform and red surf rescue cap stands on the beach, talking to someone. The ocean is visible in the background.

    Before making a formal complaint

    Where appropriate, members are encouraged to:

    • Attempt to resolve the issue directly (if safe and appropriate)

    • Seek guidance from an MPIO

    If the issue is unresolved or requires formal escalation, a complaint can then be lodged.

  • A Beach rescue team in yellow and red uniforms standing behind a wooden fence, looking at the ocean, with rescue equipment nearby, during daytime. One person is in a motorised wheelchair.

    Talk to your club

    In many cases, concerns can be resolved at a local level.

    You are encouraged to speak with:

    • A club leader or committee member

    • Your Club’s Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO)

  • Group of people wearing yellow surf rescue uniforms and red hats standing outdoors against a cloudy sky.

    Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO)

    MPIOs are trained volunteers who can help you understand your options, and to help you make an informed decision about your next steps. MPIOs can:

    • Listen to your concerns

    • Provide information on available pathways

    • Help you understand the complaints process

    MPIOs do not:

    • Direct you on what action to take

    • Investigate complaints

    • Make decisions

  • Female surf rescue team member in yellow and red uniform and red hat with 'Surf Rescue' written on it, in a surf club equipment storage area with surfboards and rescue gear.

    SLSA Complaints Process

    If a matter cannot be resolved and requires formal handling, it can be submitted through the SLSA complaints process.

    Lodge a Formal Complaint
  • Two surf rescue workers wearing yellow uniforms and red caps with yellow checkered patterns stand on a beach during sunset, facing the ocean, with flags in the background.

    Member Wellbeing

    Wellbeing is not just about responding to incidents, it’s about ongoing care and connection. There are a range of support options for members, whether you’re facing a challenging time, worried about someone else, or simply want to check in on your own wellbeing.

    Read more about Wellbeing Resources