The Royal Life Saving Society Australia was founded in 1894 and has eight Branches, one in each State of the Territory. The Royal Life Saving Society Australia became member of WLS in 1986 and of FIS in 1991.

In Australia there is a dual system of lifesaving with Surf Life Saving Australia being responsible for ocean beaches and The Royal Life Saving Society Australia being responsible for water safety in harbours, bays, enclosed pools, lakes and rivers. The RLSSA moved strongly into water safety education.

The Royal Life Saving Society Australia is a non-profit, volunteer community service organisation specialising in Water Safety Education, Survival Swimming, Lifesaving, Resuscitation and Lifeguarding.

An extensive network of volunteers and professionals operate in zones and sub branches covering all areas of Australia, both rural and urban. Over half a million Australians each year achieve water safety and lifesaving awards through the Society. The Royal Life Saving Society Australia is supported by the Australian Government, and has some 50.000 members.