Community driven approach to operation of new centre

Published on 27 June 2024

Three people with goggles swimming underwater.

Kingston’s new aquatic and leisure centre will be managed by Council and operate under an in-house management model.

The decision will ensure the new centre and Waves Leisure Centre will continue to provide a high level of service through our dedicated in-house leisure centre team who have built strong relationships with our members and visitors. This is also consistent with our strategic direction for the delivery of other core community facilities and services, such as our libraries and childcare centres.

Mayor Jenna Davey-Burns said that a detailed review of available management options highlighted that the chosen model would provide the most benefit for our diverse community.

“It’s clear that keeping things in-house will maximise flexibility and enable us to adapt quickly and effectively to changing demographics, community requests, and Council goals,” Cr Davey-Burns said.

“This new centre is a major investment in the long-term health, wellbeing, and aquatic education of our community and we want to ensure as many people as possible utilise it.”

Melaleuca Ward Councillor Tim Cochrane said under this management model we are confident we will be able to best meet the needs of our community and reach those in our community who experience barriers to participation. Equity and inclusion are extremely important to us.

“This will also build on our reputation as an employer of choice within the aquatics industry, having provided strong career growth opportunities and pathways into the sector and the broader Council organisation since 1994,” Cr Cochrane said.

Consultation continues around the name of the new centre – head to yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/name-the-pool before 30 June to have your say.

Construction of the new aquatic and leisure centre is planned to commence later this year. It is expected to open in 2026 and welcome over 420,000 visitors annually.

To keep up to date with all things new aquatic and leisure centre head to kingston.vic.gov.au/new-centre.