The prestigious nod recognises the SAALC as a world-class facility and is expected to attract some of the nation's best swimmers, divers and water polo players to Adelaide in the lead up to next year's Olympic and Paralympic games.

The complex, in Oaklands Park, is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including a 50m competition pool, a 55m water polo and dive competition pool, a fully equipped fitness centre and recovery spaces.

SAALC General Manager Adam Luscome said the centre was a worthy home for elite athletes.

“We are now in a position to play a crucial role in providing a world-class training environment for our national athletes which puts the SAALC on the international map,” Mr Luscombe said.

“We look forward to welcoming all athletes, coaches, and visitors to experience the world-class facilities at the South Australian Aquatic and Leisure Centre.”

Swimmers, divers and water polo players based out of the centre have won more than 100 medals at international events, since the venue opened in 2011.

The South Australian Sports Institute (SASI) aquatic high-performance programs are also based at the complex – which prepares South Australian athletes for the world stage.

With a home Olympic and Paralympic Games less than a decade away, this designation provides South Australia with an advantage to develop athletes.

For more information about the venue, visit the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing website.