There are two colours every Australian knows to look for on the beach. Two flags that offer a place for everyone. The red and yellow. They mark a line in the sand that stands for one thing: saving lives.

On March 4, 2026, Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) will launch the very first national Red & Yellow Day, a nationwide celebration of the volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and courage to keeping Australia’s beaches safe.

Red & Yellow Day will invite all Australians to show their support for surf lifesavers, the men and women who show up, season after season, in selfless service. 

There will be many ways everyday Aussies will be able to show their support - by wearing red and yellow, donating, fundraising, signing up at local clubs, or simply pledging to stay beach-safe, it is hoped that Red & Yellow Day becomes an important milestone on the annual calendar. 

Surf Life Saving Australia is also calling on corporate Australia to support Red & Yellow Day through their workplaces, with their clients and staff, and help launch this day in style. 

SLSA CEO, Adam Weir, said Red & Yellow Day will be a way for Australians to really show their support for our volunteers.

“Every summer, our volunteer surf lifesavers are there for everyone - Red & Yellow Day is our chance to stand with them. By wearing the red and yellow colours, donating, or simply choosing to swim between the flags, every Australian can play a part in saving lives.

“Surf Life Saving has always been about community. But to keep our beaches safe, we need the whole nation behind us.  

“We’re also calling on corporate Australia to get behind Red & Yellow Day. Our partners are already finding creative ways to show their support, and we invite other businesses, big and small, to join this national effort. Together, we can make a lifesaving difference.

“Coastal drowning remains one of Australia’s biggest public safety challenges. With the support of everyday Australians and corporate partners, we can turn the tide. 

“Red & Yellow Day is about uniting the country around two iconic colours that mean one thing: saving lives,” he said. 

How Australians can get involved

• Wear it: Show your colours by dressing in red and yellow on 4th March.
• Fly it: Display the iconic flags or red and yellow colours at your school, workplace, or community event.
• Support it: Donate or host your own fundraiser.
• Live it: Join your local Surf Life Saving Club or simply commit to swimming between the red and yellow flags.

Why It Matters

• More than 190,000 volunteers are part of the Surf Life Saving movement.
• Each year, surf lifesavers perform thousands of rescues and preventative actions to protect beachgoers.
• Coastal drowning remains one of Australia’s leading causes of accidental death.

By uniting in red and yellow, Australians can show surf lifesavers that they are valued, supported, and never alone in their mission.

To get involved go to redandyellowday.org.au.