A re-elected Marshall Liberal Government will provide $25 million as part of a three-way split with the Adelaide City Council and Federal Government towards the cost of a new council-operated $75 million – $85 million Adelaide Aquatic Centre in North Adelaide.
The new Adelaide Aquatic Centre will include a 50-metre indoor pool, a 25-metre indoor pool, a large indoor water play and leisure pool, an outdoor leisure pool, a dedicated learn-to-swim pool, a warm hydrotherapy pool, gym and group fitness areas.
“We are providing precisely the amount of funding the Adelaide City Council requested of the State Government as part of a proposal submitted to us in November last year,” Treasurer Rob Lucas said.
“The contrast with the Malinauskas Labor Opposition’s promise to burden South Australian taxpayers with the entire cost of its $80 million facility could not be clearer.
“What Mr Malinauskas did not mention was that taxpayers will have to pay up to $2 million every year to operate the facility.
“Mr Malinauskas has been played by the Adelaide City Council and South Australian taxpayers are going to foot the bill for his rookie error.
“Labor will write blank cheques with taxpayer funds based on a political calculation whereas the Marshall Government funds community facilities based on need and shared responsibilities.
“There is no doubt that the Adelaide City Council and the Federal Government should be co-funding this community facility – it is not and should not be the sole responsibility of South Australian taxpayers.
“The State Government and the Council have now committed funding and the final decision rests with the Federal Government.
“According to Labor’s own calculations the $55 million Labor intends to waste on its cynical political ploy could pay for an additional 375 doctors, nurses and ambulance officers
“Labor’s waste of $55 million of taxpayer’s money highlights the risks of electing a Malinauskas Labor Government at the coming state election.”
Member for Adelaide Rachel Sanderson welcomed Marshall Liberal Government funding to help deliver a much-needed new Adelaide Aquatic Centre that will be enjoyed by the community for decades to come.
“As Member for Adelaide, I know how much the Adelaide Aquatic Centre means to our community and that’s why I’ve advocated fiercely on both a state and federal level to secure funding for this crucial project,” Minister Sanderson said.
“Many South Australian have fond memories learning to swim and enjoying the Adelaide Aquatic Centre on a hot summer’s day and there is no doubt this news will be welcomed by the almost one million people who use this pool every year.
“The Marshall Liberal Government’s plan responds to the Council’s requests after extensive consultation with the community and ensures we are getting the best value for money while getting the best outcome for our community.
“Labor’s plan is stuck in the slow lane, leaves more questions than answers and slugs South Australian taxpayers a whopping $80 million – not to mention ongoing annual operating costs.”