Matt Dee, a former Bondi Rescue lifeguard and prominent mental health advocate, has died at the age of 47, according to a statement released by the company he co-founded.
His passing was confirmed by FTW Revolution, a clothing and events initiative focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The organization announced that funeral arrangements are being finalized and will be shared in due course. His cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
Dee became widely known through his appearances on the long-running Australian television series Bondi Rescue, where he served as a lifeguard between 2008 and 2017. Beyond television, he built a reputation as a passionate advocate for mental health, using his platform to reach young people and encourage open conversations around emotional struggles.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, fans, and members of the lifeguard and mental health communities. Fellow lifeguards and friends described him as someone who touched many lives and worked tirelessly to support others facing difficult times.
As co-founder of FTW Revolution, Dee helped raise significant funds—reportedly over $500,000—for Suicide Prevention Australia. His advocacy work was also shaped by personal tragedy, having spoken publicly about losing close family members to mental illness. These experiences fueled his mission to create alternative support systems for those who might not seek traditional help.
His legacy extends beyond television into meaningful social impact, particularly among young Australians dealing with mental health challenges. Through his work, outreach, and public voice, Dee left a lasting mark on both the entertainment and advocacy spaces.
He is remembered as a dedicated lifeguard, a compassionate advocate, and a figure who used his platform to make a difference.
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