Construction of the new hydrotherapy pool in Tuggeranong is now complete, delivering an important health and wellbeing service for south Canberra.
The new hydrotherapy pool will open to the public from 25 August 2025. It is another example of the ACT Government's commitment to providing safe, high-quality and person-centred care for our community.
Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said the new facility offers a vital and accessible service for many people in Canberra's south.
"This new hydrotherapy pool is a fantastic addition to the Lakeside Leisure Centre, and I would like to thank Minister Stephen-Smith for her continuous work on this project from inception right through to completion." Minister Berry said.
"There are flexible booking options through the Active World app or in person at reception, so the community can access the benefits of hydrotherapy. This will be available to the public from early next week."
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the new facility - located at the Lakeside Leisure Centre - complements the hydrotherapy pool at the University of Canberra Hospital, ensuring more Canberrans can access hydrotherapy services close to home.
"Hydrotherapy is a powerful tool for recovery, rehabilitation and pain management," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"This new pool will support people living with chronic conditions such as arthritis, cancer and migraines, and those recovering from injury or surgery. It's designed to be inclusive, accessible and welcoming for all Canberrans."
The hydrotherapy pool has been designed in line with the Australasian Health Facilities Guidelines to ensure accessibility, safety and comfort for all users. Key features include:
- Additional accessible and standard parking spaces
- Ramps to access the centre and the pool
- Underfloor heating and water temperature at 33-34 degrees (about the same as skin temperature – which means the body does not go into any shock when entering the water and enables the muscles and nervous system to relax)
- Accessible bathroom and changeroom
- Safety and accessibility support features like handrails, bariatric rated hydraulic hoist to access the pool & slip resistant flooring
- Storage for mobility aids including wheelchairs and mobility scooters
Importantly, the facility also includes a Changing Places facility, a specialised accessible public toilet for people with disability who have high physical support needs. The inclusion of a Changing Places facility responds directly to community feedback received during the development of the ACT Disability Strategy in 2022.
"Integrating a Changing Places facility into our new hydrotherapy pool ensures people with disability and high support needs can access therapeutic aquatic services with dignity, safety, and comfort," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
The new hydrotherapy pool will be managed by Belgravia as part of the Lakeside Leisure Centre.
