The Australian Government will make available grants of up to $10,000 to surf lifesaving clubs to install water saving and efficiency devices on club premises.

Minister for Climate Change and Water, Senator Penny Wong, today launched the surf lifesaving club component of the $250 million National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative during a visit to Ocean Grove in Victoria.

"This program delivers on an election commitment to support water efficiency in Australia's surf lifesaving clubs," Senator Wong said.

"Surf lifesaving clubs are iconic features along Australia's coastline and play a role in the summer holidays of thousands of Australians.

"Through the National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative, we are providing up to $10,000 per club to install water saving and water efficient devices."

Member for Corangamite, Darren Cheeseman, said surf lifesaving clubs could help increase awareness of practical measures people could use to save water in their homes and workplaces.

"We hope that Surf Life Saving Australia members as well as other beachgoers will see and use this infrastructure and feel inspired to adopt similar measures at home and at work."

Activities eligible for funding include installation of new rainwater tanks connected to club premises so that they can be used for toilet flushing and/or laundry use. Clubs can claim funding for plumbing, guttering, downpipes and other materials, provided these are for the new tank.

Funding will also be considered for water efficient or water saving devices such as taps, toilets, urinals and showers. Showers and urinals must have a three star rating under the Water Efficiency Labelling Standards Scheme and toilets and taps must have a four star rating.

The National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative forms part of the Australian Government's $12.9 billion Water for the Future program which aims to secure our long-term water supplies.

"A key priority under Water for the Future is the need to use water wisely and community groups such as Surf Life Saving Australia have an important role to play in improving water efficiency and adapting to climate change," Senator Wong said.

To apply for a grant, clubs may contact Surf Life Saving Australia by emailing watersavings@slsa.asn.au or telephoning 02 9300 4000. For more information, including guidelines and application form, visit Surf Life Saving Australia's website: www.slsa.com.au.