Now everyone can enjoy Inner West pools
Thursday 30 September 2021
Inner West Council is ensuring everyone can enjoy its popular aquatic facilities by lowering fees to $1.20 for social security recipients.
At Tuesday night’s Council Meeting, Council resolved to apply the $1.20 entry for all Inner West pools.
The former Leichhardt Council had led the way - Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre has had a pensioner rate for many years. This rate will now be extended to all social security recipients right across the local government area.
“I am so pleased this was passed unanimously by Council. It’s great news for thousands of social security recipients throughout the Inner West,” said Inner West Mayor Rochelle Porteous.
“With pools now reopened, and everyone agreeing what a relief they are providing during the current pandemic and lockdown, it’s only fair that these facilities are made accessible to all.
“We are also mindful that many people in the Inner West have lost their jobs, or had their hours of work greatly reduced during lockdown, people are exhausted and stressed with this pandemic. Making sure everyone can get access to our wonderful pools will really make a difference,” Mayor Porteous said.
“We consulted with the community on this proposed change in fees and I’m not surprised that it received overwhelming support.
“It’s a reflection of our fair-minded, altruistic and progressive citizens that they have warmly embraced making our pools more accessible for all – whatever their income,” Mayor Porteous said.
The standard casual swimming fee of $1.20 for social security recipients at all Inner West Council aquatic facilities commenced yesterday, Wednesday 29 September. It is available to all, not just residents of the Inner West.
Social security recipients will need to show their Pensioner Concession Card. Cardholders include:
• Age Pensioners
• Carers
• Disability Support Pensioners
• Anyone eligible for JobSeeker, Youth Allowance or Parenting Payment
Anyone eligible for these payments should already have a Pensioner Concession Card.
Council will notify all local NGOs and members of the Inner West Taking Action on Poverty Roundtable to make sure Council is reaching out to as many social security recipients as possible.
For media enquiries, contact Elizabeth Heath, Media and Communications Coordinator, 9392 5334 or Elizabeth.Heath@innerwest.nsw.gov.au