City of Darwin and Swimming Northern Territory look to develop new Olympic and Paralympic training facility

The City of Darwin is backing a proposal from Swimming Northern Territory, supported by Swimming Australia and other stakeholders, to build a new land-based Olympic and Paralympic training facility at the city’s Parap Pool.

Advising that the proposed facility would position Parap Pool as a world-class training destination for local, national, and international swim teams, City of Darwin Lord Mayor, Kon Vatskalis stated “Parap Pool is the only World Aquatics compliant facility in Darwin, making it the designated pool for swimming competitions and events.

“Parap Pool supports a wide range of programs for all ages and abilities, including learn-to-swim, aqua aerobics, squad training and water polo.

“If constructed, it is anticipated the new facility at Parap Pool would be used by the Australian Dolphins Olympic and Paralympic teams in the lead up to the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.

“The proposed training facility would also support the development of local club swimmers by providing access to strength and conditioning facilities and programs, as well as providing space for interstate swim teams who use Parap Pool for training camps."

The proposed facility would be constructed on unused netball courts on the eastern side of the pool complex for use by local clubs as well as interstate and national swim squads.

The community is being asked to share their thoughts on the proposal, which includes a concept design featuring an enclosed, wheelchair-accessible building featuring a gym, recovery space, meeting room and storeroom.

The Council has provided in-principle support for the proposal subject to community feedback and funding confirmation and planning.

Community pop-up stalls will be available at Parap Pool from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Wednesday 30th April and from 3:30pm until 6:30pm on Thursday 1st May 2025.

Community engagement will close at 4pm on Tuesday 6th May.

Click here to access an online survey on the proposal.