A world-class aquatic centre will rise in Spring Hill, transforming the existing Centenary Pool site into Australia’s premier venue for Olympic swimming, diving, and water polo.
A National Aquatic Hub in the Heart of Brisbane
The new National Aquatic Centre will serve as the cornerstone for aquatic events during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Located just 1.5 kilometres from the CBD, the facility will include two major indoor stadiums, elite training pools, and space for community use.
During the Games, the venue will expand to seat more than 25,000 spectators with temporary seating, making it one of the largest aquatics arenas in Olympic history. After the Games, it will maintain a legacy capacity of 8,000 permanent seats, ensuring ongoing benefits for Australia’s aquatic sports community. It will also support the nation’s four peak aquatic sports bodies and continue to host elite competitions and training programs.
Long-Term Benefits Beyond the Podium
The Spring Hill centre was selected not just for its central location, but also for its access to existing public transport and nearby green space, aiming to make it both high-performance and highly accessible. The project is part of a broader infrastructure strategy to support Brisbane’s long-term growth and sporting culture.
Upgrades to the Chandler-based Brisbane Aquatic Centre will complement the Spring Hill facility, ensuring additional capacity for training and competition throughout the Games. The Spring Hill development will operate alongside other venues, including a new Brisbane Stadium at Victoria Park and a revitalised RNA Showgrounds, all aimed at creating a cohesive and connected Games precinct.
Athlete Support Reflects Excitement and Legacy
Australian Olympians have welcomed the announcement of the National Aquatic Centre in Spring Hill with open arms, describing it as a landmark for the future of aquatic sports.
Four-time Olympian and Paris 2024 gold medallist Cameron McEvoy said the centre will play a vital role in inspiring future athletes. Reflecting on his own childhood experience at Sydney Olympic Park, he said seeing an Olympic venue in person had a lasting impact. He believes the Spring Hill facility will offer that same spark for the next generation, calling it a venue that will ignite dreams and enable them to be realised through world-class training environments.
McEvoy noted the centre will feature the latest high-performance technology and the capacity for multiple aquatic sports to train side-by-side, setting a new national standard. He added that South-East Queensland’s Olympic success at Paris 2024 makes the region an ideal home for such a facility.
Paralympic swimmer Lakeisha Patterson shared similar views, describing the centre as a game changer not only for performance but for inclusivity. She highlighted the importance of a venue that showcases athletes of all abilities and fosters an environment where every Australian can feel encouraged to participate. For her, the centre represents a powerful legacy that extends beyond competition.
Swimming Australia CEO Rob Woodhouse also spoke about the significance of the project, describing it as the most important investment in aquatic sport in Australian history. He said it would serve the community for the next 50 years and help maintain Australia’s strength in aquatic sports, from learn-to-swim programs to the elite level.
Community Impact and Infrastructure Legacy
The 2032 Delivery Plan, shaped by community input and expert reviews, outlines more than just sporting venues. It includes major improvements to Brisbane’s transport system and public facilities. The aquatic centre will be a drawcard for national and international events while providing recreational access to residents for decades to come.
Queensland leaders stated that this Spring Hill site, alongside other key venues, would position Brisbane as a destination for major sporting and entertainment events well beyond 2032. Community access and multi-use planning are central to the centre’s long-term purpose, with the goal of promoting health, fitness, and engagement in aquatic sports across generations.
Published 26-March-2025