Proposed Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility denied Federal Government funding

Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s application for $13.6 million in Federal Government funding has been denied, forcing it to explore other options.

The aquatic complex in Macquarie Park would replace the ageing Port Macquarie War Memorial Olympic Swimming Pool, which Council manages alongside the Laurieton War Memorial Baths, the Kendall Community Pool and the Wauchope Memorial Olympic Pool.

Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts said while the decision was a “disappointing outcome” for the community, it would not deter his and Council’s efforts to continue to pursue funding for the Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility.

Mayor Adam Roberts noted “a significant portion of funding we applied for to progress the delivery of the aquatic centre – one of the highest-priority strategic projects for our region – has been denied.

“When you consider the extensive community engagement process undertaken, and community support for the project, as well as the due diligence done to obtain all relevant building, environmental and development assessment approvals – including at a State Government level – it is an extremely disappointing outcome.”

Port Macquarie Hastings Council submitted the application to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and Arts for its support to progress Stage 1 of the Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility, in October 2024.

Stage 1 of the project includes scope for a 50-metre outdoor pool, a 25-metre pool with transparent roof, a 20-metre indoor pool, gym, amenities, kiosk and 128 parking spots.

The $13.6 million in funding needed to be contingent on Council matching it dollar for dollar. The matched amount was to be budgeted via developer contributions.

The Growing Regions Round 2 Fund supports capital works projects that will enhance liveability, bolster social cohesion and support local amenity throughout Australia's regions.

The Department advised that while the nominated project was regarded as suitable, it was ultimately unsuccessful in receiving funding.

The outcome letter stated “a successful application had to rate highly against each assessment criterion as outlined in the Program Guidelines, and against other applications, in order to be found suitable for funding.

“Unfortunately, on this occasion whilst found to be suitable, your application was not successful. The decision considered factors including project size, complexity, funding requested, value for relevant money, risks associated with the project, and available program funds.”

Further funding options will now be explored by Council, to allow the best possible chance for future planning and development of the facility to continue.

Image. Port Macquarie Aquatic Centre 2021 concept plan