Swimmers in Perth's rapidly growing northern suburbs are on the cusp of a major aquatic leap forward, with the official opening date now set for the highly anticipated $13 million redevelopment of Arena Joondalup.
A Grand Opening After Two-Year Wait
The brand-new, state-of-the-art 50-metre lap pool will welcome the public for the very first time on Friday, February 27, 2026. This marks the end of a two-year closure for the facility, much to the delight of local residents and swimming clubs. To celebrate, a family fun day packed with activities, food, and entertainment is scheduled for Monday, March 2, coinciding with the Labour Day public holiday.
Funded by the State Government, the project was specifically designed to cater to the community's needs for decades to come. Deputy Premier and Minister for Sport and Recreation, Rita Saffioti, hailed the opening as a significant milestone. "Our government is proud to invest in this state-of-the-art facility for the whole community, from families and children to the best swimmers in our State," Ms Saffioti said.
Cutting-Edge Features for Competition and Community
This competition-ready aquatic centre is packed with features designed for elite performance and broad community use. The main pool boasts 10 lanes with starting blocks at both ends, upgraded timing equipment, and a redesigned shallow end. A key innovation is a submersible diving wall, which allows the facility to transform. It can convert into a short-course configuration with up to 20 lanes or be adapted for water polo, training sessions, and other aquatic sports.
In a major focus on safety, the complex has been fitted with AI-powered drowning prevention technology. This advanced system, installed in both the new lap pool and the recently upgraded family pool, is the same life-saving technology credited with preventing a tragedy at Inglewood Leisure.
Accessibility and Art at the Forefront
Ensuring the facility is inclusive for all has been a core design principle. Significant upgrades include new access ramps, stairs for independent entry and exit, revamped changerooms, and universal access toilets.
Visitors will also be greeted by a meaningful new art piece at the entrance. This work was created through a collaboration between Arena Joondalup staff and Aboriginal students from St Catherine’s College, adding a unique local cultural element to the venue.
Local member Emily Hamilton, the MLA for Joondalup, expressed her thrill at the project's completion. "This new pool provides the top-tier facilities our residents deserve," Ms Hamilton stated. "When completed, it will become the northernmost 50m pool in Perth's growing metropolitan region."
David Etherton, CEO of VenuesWest, described the new pool as a "game changer" for customers, offering features and flexibility the old facility could not match. He extended gratitude to the community for their patience during construction and eagerly anticipated welcoming the Arena Swim club back home.
