The taps have been turned on and memberships are open at the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre.
In a major milestone for the development, filling has begun on the first pools in preparation for the opening of the $135 million centre at the end of January.
Former members and local residents have the opportunity to be first to apply to join the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre
from 17 November, with memberships then extended to all South Australians from 19 November.
These memberships will come into effect when the new centre opens to the public from Tuesday, 27 January 2026, and will give people access to both the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre as well as the SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre (SAALC) at Oaklands Park.
While the new indoor pools are being filled finishing touches are being applied to interior spaces and work is progressing on the outdoor aquatic spaces and landscaped areas.
The site of the existing Adelaide Aquatic Centre will be returned to Park Lands, while construction of the new car park is also scheduled to be complete for the facility’s opening in January.
More than 1500 jobs are being supported throughout the construction process.
The new centre will feature:
- a 50m, 10-lane indoor pool for swimming carnivals, water sports and recreational use
- a 25m, 8-lane outdoor pool
- a dedicated indoor warm water rehabilitation pool
- a dedicated indoor learn to swim pool
- a lagoon outdoor pool
- entry level diving amenities
- indoor leisure space, with splash zones and waterslides
- relaxation zone, sauna and steam room
- an outdoor splash pad with waterplay
- an outdoor aquatic zone with BBQs and lawned areas
In May, YMCA Aquatic was announced as the operator for the centre. Up to 300 jobs will be created, with staff who 
worked at the former Aquatic Centre given the first opportunity to express interest in filling the roles. Recruitment for these positions continues.
YMCA Aquatic general manager Adam Luscombe said the launch of memberships was "a big step forward for our state".
"From 27 January, South Australians will have access to world-class swimming lessons and a welcoming facility that helps people of all ages belong, move and thrive," Mr Luscombe said.
