Canberrans pick pool fixes over new builds, survey shows
A survey found 52% of Canberrans prioritise maintaining and upgrading existing pools over building new ones.
The ACT Aquatic Strategy survey asked what Canberrans want from the Territory's pools. Maintenance and upgrades came first at 52% support.
Warm-water pools got 34% support, family indoor pools 32%, and new facilities in growing areas 30%. Most people use pools for casual swimming and recreation (71%), not lessons or hydrotherapy.
Indoor pools are most popular (59% use them). About one in four residents didn't visit any pool in the past year.
The government plans to assess a 50-metre outdoor pool site in Woden and new facilities in West Belconnen. A draft strategy is due in March 2027.
- 52%
- Maintenance priority
- 71%
- Recreational use
- 59%
- Indoor pool users
- One in four residents
- No pool visits past year
Why it mattersThe survey helps the ACT government decide where to spend money on pools, focusing on what residents actually need rather than guessing.
AustraliaCanberra residents will see the Territory prioritise fixing up existing pools in their area over building new ones, based on this community feedback.
