The countdown is officially on for one of Adelaide’s most anticipated community builds, with the new $135 million Adelaide Aquatic Centre reaching a major milestone as the first pools begin filling ahead of opening day in late January. The moment marks a huge step forward in bringing the state’s newest sport, recreation and wellness hub to life, and for former members and local residents, today also signals the chance to become the facility’s very first members.
From today, former members and people living nearby can apply for memberships to the new centre, with access opening to all South Australians from Wednesday, 19 November. The memberships will kick in when the centre officially opens its doors to the public on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, giving members access to both the brand-new Adelaide Aquatic Centre and the SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre (SAALC) at Oaklands Park.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Emily Bourke says the water hitting the pools is a moment that’s been years in the making. “We have achieved a major milestone in the construction of the new $135 million Adelaide Aquatic Centre with the new pools starting to be filled with water. It’s not long until the centre will be open to the public in January. There have been over 400,000 construction hours worked and over 1,500 full time jobs supported during the construction phase.”
While construction pushes into its final stages, crews are now applying finishing touches to the interior spaces, progressing work on landscaped outdoor zones, and shaping the sprawling family-friendly waterplay areas. The transformation of the site, including the new Jeffcott Street car park and improved pedestrian and cycle connections, remains on track, with the original Aquatic Centre site set to be returned to Park Lands once the new facility opens.
Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Rhiannon Pearce says standing onsite brings home the significance of what’s being delivered. “Being here on site today, it’s amazing to get a sense of just how incredible the completed centre will be and how much it will have on offer for all South Australians. There will be something for everyone! Former members and locals can now apply to become founding members and from Wednesday all South Australians will be able to join. Memberships will be valid for both the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre and the SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre at Oaklands Park.”
Local Member for Adelaide Lucy Hood says the milestone is especially meaningful for the community surrounding the park lands. “I’m so thrilled to be able to provide local residents and former members of the previous site the first opportunity to become members of the brand-new centre. With an opening date set, we cannot wait for the doors to open and to welcome back former and new members and visitors. This new centre is going to be a game-changer for our local community.”
The new Adelaide Aquatic Centre will feature:
- a 50m, 10-lane indoor pool for swimming carnivals, water sports and recreational use
- a 25m, 8-lane outdoor pool
- a dedicated indoor warm water rehabilitation pool
- a dedicated indoor learn to swim pool
- a lagoon outdoor pool
- entry level diving amenities
- indoor leisure space, with splash zones and waterslides
- relaxation zone, sauna and steam room
- an outdoor splash pad with waterplay
- an outdoor aquatic zone with BBQs and lawned areas
- a café available for both centre visitors and other Park 2 users
- gym and fitness facilities three times the size than first planned
- inclusive amenities and changerooms
- increased car parking with access from Jeffcott Street
- improved pedestrian and cycle pathways connecting the centre with existing networks.
With YMCA Aquatic appointed as operator, recruitment is continuing for up to 300 roles, with past staff offered first priority. YMCA Aquatic General Manager Adam Luscombe says the membership launch is an important moment. “Launching memberships at Adelaide Aquatic Centre, Denise Norton Pardipardinyilla, is a big step forward for our state. From 27 January, South Australians will have access to world-class swimming lessons and a welcoming facility that helps people of all ages belong, move and thrive.”
To learn about the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre membership options, click here.
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