The Chief Executive of Swimming Australia, Rob Woodhouse, is advocating for a new $650 million aquatic centre in Brisbane, aimed at ensuring a lasting Olympic and Paralympic legacy. He has stated that he would only support swimming events for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics in a temporary drop-in pool if the proposed permanent facility is approved.
Swimming Australia, alongside other aquatic sport bodies, has submitted a proposal during Queensland’s 100-day infrastructure review, with results scheduled for release on March 25. A multi-purpose venue, Brisbane Arena, is confirmed for development, backed by a federal investment of $2.5 billion, but the venue for swimming—either a drop-in pool or another location—is yet to be decided.
Woodhouse stressed the significance of building the aquatic centre at Victoria Park which would serve community needs long after the Olympics, through learn-to-swim programs and various competitions. He pointed out that while temporary solutions like drop-in pools were acceptable, a lasting infrastructure, similar to what will be built in Paris for the 2024 Games, is vital. The Paris setup includes a drop-in pool for events but also a permanent facility for ongoing use.
Woodhouse expressed concerns that hosting swimming in a temporary pool would deprive the community of a legacy and serve only short-term interests. He highlighted the necessity for high-performance facilities that cater to the community’s long-term needs in aquatic sports, which could last for decades.
In discussions with various stakeholders, including the newly elected Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, Woods has noted mixed support but remains hopeful. The need for the aquatic centre has also been supported by Australian Paralympian Tim Hodge, who emphasised that many existing facilities are outdated and inadequate for both able-bodied and para-athletes.
Hodge affirmed that while drop-in pools might save costs, they cannot replace the requirement for modern, accessible infrastructure. Both Woodhouse and Hodge advocate for comprehensive planning that prioritises lasting benefits from the Games, rather than purely functional temporary solutions.
Overall, Swimming Australia and its allies view this aquatic centre as critical for fostering future talent and ensuring accessible, high-quality facilities for all athletes in the community.