The subsidy scheme for volunteer marine rescue organisations first commenced in 1938. The scheme was adopted to assist Surf Life Saving Clubs to provide rescue equipment necessary to save lives on the beach.
To be eligible for government subsidy, clubs were required to raise funds. These funds were assessed as endowable income on which subsidy entitlements were calculated and paid.
Since the outset, the scheme has been expanded to include Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland (VMRAQ) and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG). The Queensland branch of the Royal Life Saving Society Australia is also supported with Government funding.
In 1992/93, the subsidy scheme arrangements and funding were altered to place a maximum ceiling on subsidy payments.
In the 2002/2003 financial year, the Queensland State Government provides
approximately
$5.1M in support of these Accredited Volunteer Marine Rescue Organisations.
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