Latest Western Australian Government advice says proof of vaccination not required at aquatic centres and sport facilities

Patrons wanting to enter aquatic centres and sport facilities in Western Australia will not need to show their proof of COVID-19 vaccination certificates despite people being told that it was required after 31st January.

Contradicting earlier directions, the Western Australian Government advised local governments late on 29th January that proof of double vaccination was not required for people attending pools and stadiums where community sport was being played.

The City of Joondalup sent a message to its aquatic and recreation centre members on Sunday advising of the change from advice given on 13th January that proof of double vaccination for people aged 16 and over was mandatory at aquatic facilities, major stadiums and sport centres.

The City of Rockingham also advised ot the change via social media (see below).

A Western Australian Government spokesperson told PerthNow on 31st January that the decision was based on the Chief Health Officer’s advice, noting “pools are often used for therapy purposes and provide other health benefits, in particular in regional areas where pools are known to reduce rates of ear, chest and skin infections, particularly in more vulnerable cohorts.

“Based on the Chief Health Officer’s advice, pools are therefore not captured under the proof of vaccination requirements however, everyone who is eligible should get vaccinated, including third doses, to protect these communities.”

Masks are still mandatory when people are not swimming or doing rigorous exercise.

As reported by PerthNow, centres including Cockburn ARC, Cannington and Riverton leisureplexes, Beatty Park Leisure Centre, HBF Stadium and Craigie Leisure Centre rushed to notify members of the change on 30th January so that sporting and swim programs could start smoothly from yesterday.

The Cockburn ARC website advises that all patrons aged 16 and over must show proof of their COVID-19 vaccination status or a medical exemption to enter the gym, group fitness studios, cafe and play centre but not the aquatics zone or stadium.

Article amended 7.20am, 3rd February to include reference to the City of Rockingham's social media post.

Main image: Cockburn ARC.