Phillip grew up on the Northern Beaches where learning to swim at Mona Vale rockpool was the beginning of his lifelong connection with the water. 

He joined nippers at the age of 6 and became a member of Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club, where he represented his club with distinction and won medals at State and National Surf Life Saving Championships. His achievements are recognised on the Queenscliff SLSC Honour Boards. 

Phillip first represented Australia at the 1997 Oceania Swimming Championships, winning bronze in the 1,500m freestyle. He went on to represent Australia again at the 1999 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships, where he won 2 silver medals in the 5km Open Water and 5km Team Swim.