The Phillip Island Aquatic and Leisure Centre remains a key commitment within the Bass Coast Aquatic Strategy 2015, now positioned as the second stage of Council’s long-term plan for aquatic service delivery across the Shire.

For more than two decades, the Phillip Island community has advocated for an aquatic facility that meets local and visitor needs. Residents currently travel long distances to access swimming lessons, rehabilitation programs, and recreational activities, highlighting the need for a dedicated local facility.

The population of Phillip Island and San Remo is expected to grow by 37% by 2035, welcoming an additional 1.6 million visitors annually. To prepare for this future demand, Council has purchased land in Cowes—on the southwest corner of Phillip Island and Ventnor Roads—as the future home of the Phillip Island Aquatic and Recreation Precinct.

While Council’s immediate focus is on redeveloping the existing Bass Coast Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Wonthaggi, this staged approach strengthens our ability to attract funding and deliver both facilities over time.
Council remains committed to pursuing the Phillip Island project as a priority in the next stage of delivery.

The proposed future Centre is intended to serve as a district-level facility, designed to meet the needs of residents, schools, and visitors. Indicative components may include:

• 25m, 8-lane competition pool suitable for short course events
• Warm water, leisure, and learn-to-swim pool with moveable floor
• Water play area and splash pad
• Saunas and spa facilities
• Gym and multipurpose rooms
• Foyer, café, and community spaces
• Indoor stadium (potentially as a future stage)

The exact scope, timing and funding of the Phillip Island Aquatic and Leisure Centre will be guided by future feasibility work, detailed design outcomes from the Wonthaggi redevelopment, and the availability of external funding.