The Canberra Aquatic Centre will be built on the same site as the NCA’s Commonwealth Park concept. Image: NCA.
The ACT Government wants the Canberra Aquatic Centre project on the blocks next year ready for the starter’s gun in 2027.
It is now in the market for a contractor to build the $137.8 million centre on Commonwealth Park land opposite the future light rail stop on Commonwealth Avenue.
The project is being jointly funded by the ACT and Commonwealth governments.
The government is continuing to use the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) model adopted for other major projects such as the Northside Hospital and the Lyric Theatre.
The successful tenderer will lead the detailed design development, construction planning and develop the Works Approval to be submitted to the National Capital Authority as the site is on national land.
The ECI contractor will then have the inside running to build the project. The initial contract is expected to be awarded in mid-2026 and the construction contract in December, with the project to be developed over 2027 and 2028.
The new Aquatic Centre will replace the ageing Canberra Olympic Pool and diving facility on Constitution Avenue in Civic, which will make way for the proposed Convention and Entertainment Precinct.
The project will at a minimum include a 50 metre pool, program pool for swimming lessons, splash areas and family-friendly, accessible change rooms, although the recently closed public consultation could result in other ideas being taken on aboard.
It will consider “commensurate amenity and functionality currently” provided at the existing Civic pool, but a diving facility is not being contemplated.
The tender states that the Aquatic Centre will be a year-round indoor and weatherproof facility suitable for Canberra’s climate.
It will deploy energy-efficient systems and water-wise technology, aiming for at least a 5 Star Green Star Building rating and possibly reaching six stars as a 100 per cent electric powered building.
The tender says the Territory is also exploring the use of geothermal energy.
The project aims to support a range of sport, recreational, health and social activities, be another city attraction and serve the growing number of residents in the CBD as housing there increases.
Given its location, the building should seamlessly connect with its surrounds and preserve site lines to nearby buildings of national significance.
The project will be part of a number of other works in the area including light rail Stage 2A, with completion of the Commonwealth Park stop expected in late 2026, the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge Renewal works and the Acton Waterfront.
ACT Labor promised the new aquatic centre during the 2024 election campaign after securing land in Commonwealth Park from the Albanese Government. However, at the time, the proposed site had not been settled on.
This site was selected in part for its convenience to public transport, particularly the new light rail station.
The NCA’s Commonwealth Park Concept Vision 2025 included a new aquatic facility in the same location.
The tender closes on 29 January.
