Age Groups

Nippers can start once they turn 5 years old. Age group is determined as at the 30th September each year. Nippers must be registered in the applicable Age Group.  Please refer to the Nipper Age Groups to determine your child’s Age Group.

Nippers Age Groups are strict: the Surf Life Saving system does not permit movement up or down an Age Group. We cannot accept requests such as accommodating friendship groups, swim ability or timetabling.

Proficiency Swim, Floatation, Submersion & Propulsion Requirements

Swimming proficiencies are held prior to commencement of the season. All U6s to U14s Nippers must complete a pool proficiency. Please refer to the Age Group Proficiency Swim page for the requirements by age group.

It is your responsibility to ensure your child can pass the preliminary skills evaluation. Please get them back in the ocean or pool to practise the swim distance & skills evaluation criteria. We do not accept swim certificates as proof of competency.

Nippers is not a learn to swim program. We strongly encourage all Nippers to participate in an external professional swimming program. Your child will be safer in the ocean and progress more quickly if they are a confident swimmer.

Parent involvement

As a voluntary organisation we need help from you, the kids’ parents and guardians, to be able to make Nippers an enjoyable experience. All parents are expected to assist throughout the season, either on the BBQ, as Age Group managers or assistants, or as Water Safety.

Find out how you can get involved here.

2026/27 Registration Fees

Nippers:

• First child: $170
• Second and Third siblings: $140 per child
• Any further siblings:  $0

Parents and Carers (new requirement in 2026/27):

In 2026/27, every Nipper must have at least one parent or carer registered with the Club. This ensures parents and carers are covered by the Club’s insurance while assisting with Nippers activities and supports the safe operation of the program.

Children cannot participate without a registered parent or carer.

For parents and carers who are not already members of the Club:

• Register as a Nipper Parent/Carer: $30

For parents and carers who are Active, Associate or General members of the Club:

• There is no additional fee. Your 2026/27 membership renewal already covers your parent/carer registration.

If you would like to get involved in Water Safety or lifesaving, we would love for you to become Active Members of the Club. You must hold a Bronze Medallion qualification to do so. If you don’t yet have a Bronze Medallion, we offer Nipper parents and carers a 20% discount on the course; contact nippers@bondisurfclub.com for your discount code. Learn more about getting your Bronze Medallion here.

Bondi Nippers is a registered provider in the NSW Active Kids program. This means you can choose to redeem your ACV with us after paying your child’s membership fees. Please email your voucher details to nippers@bondisurfclub.com.

Refunds are only available until the end of the second week of the season (i.e. by 25 October 2026). Please see our refund policy for further details.

Communication

Bondi Nippers uses Stack Team App as the main communication channel during the season. Once you have registered your Nipper, you can download the Stack Team App for free, search for Bondi Nippers and request to join your relevant Age Group/s.

We also utilise WhatsApp groups for time-sensitive communication. You will be invited to join your Nippers WhatsApp group after you have registered your Nipper.