ACT Government Unveils New Aquatic Strategy, Commits to Woden Pool

The ACT government has committed to constructing a new 50-meter public outdoor pool in Woden as part of its new aquatic strategy for the territory. This strategy, which will be developed over 12 months, aims to identify future requirements for public pools in Canberra. Chief Minister Andrew Barr presented the strategy and confirmed the government's dedication to the Woden facility, indicating that initial site work has been completed, with construction potentially commencing by mid-2028.

Addressing Aquatic Needs

Mr. Barr also committed to a multi-sport deep pool. This is in response to the planned replacement of Civic Pool with a shallower pool at Commonwealth Park by the National Capital Authority. While acknowledging budget limitations for an Olympic-standard diving facility within a new aquatic center, Mr. Barr stated the government would investigate building one elsewhere.

Royal Life Saving Australia estimates that:

"40 percent of public pools nationally may cease operation by 2030 without significant repairs or replacements."

Mr. Barr described the strategy's goal as:

"providing maximum amenity within recreational facilities while operating within available budgets, addressing community interest in local pools and a clear future plan."

Community and Political Reactions

Sarah Ransom, a campaigner for Save Phillip Pool, expressed relief regarding the announcement but maintained a stance of:

"cautious optimism."

She noted the opportunity for engagement with the government after previous attempts and requested a commitment that the existing 50-meter pool in Phillip would remain open until the new Woden pool becomes operational.

Independent MLA Fiona Carrick, who has advocated for improved aquatic services in southern Canberra, welcomed the news. She referenced an unfulfilled promise for a community center from 2018 and stated her intent to:

"hold the government accountable for the new 50-meter pool."

Ms. Carrick urged for construction to begin before the next territory election in October 2028 and advocated for additional pools in future plans.

Political Undercurrents

The timing of the government's announcement coincided with reports of discussions between the ACT Greens and Canberra Liberals regarding a potential coalition to replace the ACT's Labor government. Ms. Carrick suggested that political pressure might have influenced the timing. Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury had previously indicated that issues such as Phillip Pool contributed to his discussions with Opposition Leader Mark Parton about a power-sharing arrangement.

Mr. Parton, in a social media statement, characterized the announcement regarding pools as a:

"win" for his party,

implying a connection to the Liberals' and Greens' shared policy position.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr, however, stated that the new swimming pool had been:

"foreshadowed previously"

and was a response to issues raised by Mr. Rattenbury in December. He also indicated that he was not concerned by reports of talks between the Greens and the Liberals, stating that communication between parties is normal in a minority parliament and that he remains focused on delivering outcomes.