The 12-month program combines year-round performance coaching for boys and girls in years 7 to 12 who are currently competing at a regional or higher level and aspiring to become a professional surfer.

Academy athletes and coaches will have full access to the state of the art training facilities at the Surfing Australia High Performance Centre (HPC), which is endorsed by the Australian Olympic Committee.

A range of performance services from sport psychology to athlete wellbeing, and physiotherapy are also part of the elite program.

Applications are now open on the Surfing Australia website.

Academy Head Coach Bede Durbidge said: "I'm really excited about the prospect of this new surfing Academy and the potential it can have for future young rising stars.

"Nothing like this has been offered before with access to the world’s best surfing facility. They’ll get the opportunity to train at the HPC alongside the world’s best surfers.

The academy has partnered with Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School as its official school-based education provider.

Academy athletes will attend Lindisfarne on a full-time basis with minimal disruption to the normal curriculum, ensuring they receive the highest quality education at a world leading school.

Chris Mater, Surfing Australia CEO, said "we're thrilled to launch Surfing Australia's new Academy for up-and-coming athletes."

"As well as giving athletes a new approach to making significant performance gains, this program is unlike any in the sport with a priority on an excellent education."