Surfing Victoria Launches Victorian Emerging Surfer Program

Surfing Victoria is proud to announce the launch of the Victorian Emerging Surfer Program, a new statewide high-performance pathway designed to identify, support and develop the next generation of Victorian surfing talent.

The program represents a significant investment in athlete development and will provide a clear and structured pathway for surfers progressing from grassroots competition through to the World Surf League’s international pathways.

The Victorian Emerging Surfer Program is designed to nurture the next generation of Victorian surfers and guide them through the development pathway from Boardriders Clubs to the Challenger Series.

Our long-term goal is to produce state, national, and internationally competitive surfers, supported by a sustainable pathway from grassroots to elite performance.

Built around four distinct tiers, the Victorian Emerging Surfer Program has been structured to support athletes at key stages of their development journey, from emerging junior surfers through to athletes competing on the WSL Challenger Series.

The pathway includes:

Tier 1 – Talent Development Program

Regional athlete development programs delivered across Victoria’s key surfing regions on a school term basis.

Tier 2 – Talent ID Program

Identification and support of Victoria’s most promising junior athletes aged 12-17 years with specialised camps to enhance and accelerate development. Note: for the inaugural/2026/27 intake, Tier 2 is open to surfers invited into the Victorian State Junior Team

Tier 3 – QS Talent Program

Targeted support for athletes competing on the WSL Australia / Oceania Qualifying Series.

Tier 4 – Challenger Talent Program

Support for Victorian surfers competing on the WSL Challenger Series and pursuing qualification to the Championship Tour.

Surfing Victoria CEO Adam Robertson said the program has been developed to strengthen Victoria’s athlete development system and provide greater support to talented surfers pursuing elite competition.

“This is one of the biggest opportunities for Victorian surfing and surfers who are looking to develop their skills,” said Robertson. “The Victorian Emerging Surfer Program provides a clear pathway for athletes to progress from local competition through to the highest levels of our sport.”

“Victoria has a proud history of producing world-class surfers, and this program is about ensuring we continue to identify and support talented athletes at every stage of their journey.”

Developed in line with national frameworks and pathways, the program will provide athletes with access to coaching, education, performance planning and athlete development opportunities tailored to their stage of progression.

Applications for the inaugural Victorian Emerging Surfer Program are open, with athletes from across Victoria encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and application requirements via the Surfing Victoria website.

The program will operate on an annual basis and form a key pillar of Surfing Victoria’s long-term commitment to athlete development and high-performance success.

Full information can be found at surfingvic.com/emerging