Newcastle Labor Push for $2 Pool Entry Trial to Boost Accessibility

21 February 2025

newy.com.au – Newcastle Labor Councillors are backing a proposal to trial a $2 pool entry fee for the 2025-26 summer, aiming to make public swimming pools more affordable and accessible for residents.

The initiative, which will be discussed at next Tuesday’s ordinary council meeting, comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive recreational opportunities in Newcastle. Labor Councillors have a history of advocating for affordable pool access, having previously saved Mayfield and Beresfield Pools from closure and implemented measures to cap entry fees at certain locations.

Over the past few years, Newcastle Council has invested heavily in improving its pool facilities, with more than $5 million allocated for upgrades and an additional $1 million set aside annually for accessibility and community enhancements. Recent projects include a new grandstand and waterslide at Lambton Pool, upgraded playgrounds at Beresfield and Mayfield, and improved accessibility features such as change facilities at Wallsend and permanent tiered seating at multiple locations. Solar heating has also been introduced at Mayfield and Wallsend, with Beresfield Pool next in line to benefit from this upgrade.

Currently, Newcastle’s public pool entry fees remain lower than those in neighbouring council areas, with adult tickets priced at $6 for Lambton Pool, $5.70 for Mayfield and Wallsend, and $5.40 for Stockton. Comparatively, Raymond Terrace’s Lakeside Pool charges $6.80, Charlestown Pool $6.60, and Maitland Pool and the Forum both set at $6.50.

Labor Councillors argue that more affordable pool access is crucial for public health, heatwave relief, and easing cost-of-living pressures. They cite successful trials in other regions, such as Snowy Valleys Council’s low-cost entry initiative, which led to a 23% increase in visitors and boosted revenue for surrounding businesses. Similar models in Melbourne and Brisbane have also demonstrated positive community outcomes.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen spoke about the importance of affordable public pools, stating:
“We’ve heard clearly that Novocastrians love their pools. Ensuring accessible entry, particularly during a cost-of-living crisis, means everyone can enjoy these valuable community spaces. Our goal is to make this possible without compromising Council’s financial sustainability.”

Councillor Deahnna Richardson highlighted the role pools play as community hubs, adding:
“For many families, a day at the pool can be expensive. With rising temperatures and ongoing financial pressures, a $2 entry trial would make a real difference for local families.”

Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk reaffirmed Labor’s long-standing commitment to pool accessibility, stating:
“A trial will allow Newcastle to responsibly assess the impact of lower entry fees while ensuring fairness and inclusivity in our community facilities.”

Councillor Paige Johnson also voiced her support, noting:
“This proposal offers an opportunity to evaluate the benefits of lower-cost entry models for public pools and how they can enhance accessibility for all residents.”

While Labor Councillors are pushing for the trial, not all Newcastle councillors are convinced. Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Callum Pull has raised concerns over the financial implications of the proposal, questioning how it will be funded.

“This is an uncosted proposal,” Cr Pull said. “They need to be clear about how much this will cost, and what they intend to cut in order to fund it. It would mean ratepayers are subsidising the cost, and this could turn out to be a very expensive gimmick.”