Public pools in Canberra are facing an uncertain future, and the issue hits close to home for many residents who see these facilities as more than just places to swim. Alan Vogt, a lifelong swimmer who once worked as a lifeguard and later studied sports, describes public pools as a vital community pillar. They’re where people relax, exercise, and catch up with friends. Looking back, he can’t imagine a city without accessible public pools.
But recent developments have raised alarms. In November, Geocon revealed plans to replace the aging Phillip Pool with a 25-meter pool housed inside a residential building, signaling a shift away from a traditional public swimming space. Earlier in the month, news broke that Big Splash would not open for the summer due to the high costs of necessary repairs. Vogt fears these moves could transform pools into something less public and less inclusive, reducing their role as community spaces.
FoMP, the Friends of Manuka Pool, shares these concerns. The group formed in 2016 to oppose the Manuka Pool’s redevelopment and argues that aging infrastructure across Canberra mirrors a national pattern: pools are not being adequately maintained, leading to deterioration and, eventually, disappearance. If that trend continues, many young people and families could lose access to swimming lessons, recreation, and health benefits tied to aquatic facilities.
Dr. Luke-Evered, president of FoMP, warns that Canberra’s aquatic infrastructure is aging faster than it’s being renewed. While pools at places like Erindale Leisure Centre, Tuggeranong, and Gungahlin are coping for now, the broader trajectory suggests more closures. She notes a similar pattern in Sydney, where pools gradually vanish one by one.
Water safety and demand are central considerations. Royal Life Saving Australia reports Canberra has around 45,000 residents per public pool, with the capital hosting 10 public pools. While this arrangement places Canberra fourth among Australia’s capitals for pool access (behind Darwin, Hobart, and Brisbane, but ahead of Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth), the overall access remains a concern for safety, learning, and social connection. Dr. Luke-Evered frames the situation as a potential crisis: communities rely on aquatic facilities for safety education, health, and social well-being, and government action in this area has not kept pace with need.
Vogt adds that even pools generally expected to be open—like Big Splash—are shuttered, and there are no clear timelines for reopening. He argues that indoor pools tied to gym brands or commercial swim programs should not be counted as public pools, and that a real shortage of public pool infrastructure exists. With population growth projected, he believes a robust plan to expand public pool capacity is essential.
This debate spills over into sport as well. Nicolette Marks, a Canberra underwater rugby player, describes Civic Pool as uniquely suited to her sport because of its depth. The National Capital Authority’s renewal plans for Commonwealth Park include a proposal to replace Civic Pool with an aquatic centre, but it’s unclear whether a deep pool or diving facilities will be included. Public submissions on the proposal closed recently, and the final outcome remains uncertain. Marks and her teammates are fighting to keep Civic Pool open, arguing that a year-round deep pool is crucial for training and competition.
For underwater rugby and related disciplines, Civic Pool is more than a training venue; it’s a potential national-stage facility. Without access to a deep, year-round pool, Canberra’s teams could lose competitive advantages and even risk the sport’s survival locally. Marks notes the difficulty of securing pool time after work and suggests that Canberra should be able to support national teams in diving, underwater rugby, underwater hockey, and water polo. The call is for clear commitments and strategic planning to protect Canberra’s aquatic culture and opportunities for all residents.
