Council have endorsed Swimming Northern Territory’s proposed new dry-land training facility at Parap Pool, following strong community support through recent consultation. 

Nearly 80 per cent of community members surveyed supported the proposed facility, reinforcing Council’s decision to approve the next phase of the project. 

Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said that the positive response reflected the community’s recognition of the value the facility would bring to Darwin. 

“We asked the community what they thought, and the response was clear, people want to see Parap Pool upgraded to support our local athletes and strengthen Darwin’s sporting future,” Mr Vatskalis said. 

“Council reviewed the plans and heard the valuable feedback from our community, and I am pleased to share that Council has approved the proposal and provided Swimming NT with the green light to build the facility.” 

Mr Vatskalis added, “This is about building on what already makes Parap Pool great, while making room for future talent and professional training and competition.” 

The engagement survey revealed that 78.7 per cent of respondents supported the proposal for the new training facility and highlighted the benefits the new facility would present to local swimming clubs, athletes, and talent. Feedback from respondents also emphasised the advancement of local sporting development and the better utilisation of the unused netball courts space. 

The facility will include a gym, recovery area, meeting room and storage space to support professional, high-performance aquatic training.  

City of Darwin will continue to work closely with Swimming Northern Territory to finalise plans and ensure the facility continues to serve a broad range of users. 

CEO of Swimming Northern Territory, Mr Warren Dopson said, “The new, approved training facility is a milestone for Swimming Northern Territory and a game-changing investment in our sport, our athletes, and our future. It unites grassroots participation with high-performance opportunity, giving our swimmers and coaches the tools they need to succeed while attracting elite teams from around the world. This project is more than infrastructure, it’s a statement that Darwin and the Territory are ready to lead on the national and international stage.” 

“This facility marks a transformative step for all aquatic sports in the Territory, fostering greater collaboration and unity across the sector. By delivering world-class dryland training and recovery amenities, we’re empowering our athletes and clubs to compete on equal footing with the rest of Australia, while establishing a central hub that unites competitive swimming (including Masters), triathlon, and para-sport in a shared pursuit of excellence.” 

Mr Dopson added, “This project isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about opportunity, identity, and legacy. With the Australian Dolphins, Open Water Dolphins, and Para-Swimming Dolphins choosing Darwin as a training base in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032, this facility becomes a symbol of national connection and local pride. For Swimming NT, it deepens our community roots, empowers our clubs, and provides lasting inspiration for the next generation of swimmers. It's where future champions will be built and refined.” 

Funding has been sourced by Swimming Northern Territory, and construction is anticipated to commence in July 2025. 

For more information about the community engagement and to read the full report, visit: engage.darwin.nt.gov.au/parap-training-facility