Frequently asked questions

When are the busy times in the pool?

Our centres operate a range of aquatic programs, including group fitness classes and Learn to Swim programs, while providing space for recreational and lap swimming. We recommend checking lap lane availability on our Swim page prior to your visit. Please note that pool lane length may vary at different times due to programming and lane configurations.

Do you have a walking lane?

Dedicated walking spaces are always available at all our centres. Please speak with a member of the lifeguard team who can direct you to this space.

How old does my child need to be to swim by themselves?

We follow the Royal Life Saving Keep Watch at Public Pools guidelines which state:   

• Children 0-5 years must be within arms’ reach of a guardian.
• Children 6-10 years must be close and in constant visual contact by a guardian.
• Children 11-14 years must be in visual contact by a guardian.
• Children under 15 years will not be allowed in the centre without appropriate supervision.

What is your swim nappy policy?

To reduce the risk of contaminations and provide an enjoyable experience for patrons, we require all children under four years of age to wear an approved swim nappy while in the pools. We cannot make exceptions to this policy. Our recommended product is Happy Nappy, which meets our safety and hygiene requirements and is available for purchase in our retail store. We recommend parents wishing to use alternative brands speak with our staff prior to swimming as certain products do not provide adequate protection and are not suitable for use in our facilities.

What swimwear is allowed in the pool?

All swimmers must wear proper swimwear, such as bathing suits, when using the pool. This is essential for hygiene and safety. Clothing other than swimwear (such as leggings, underwear, t-shirts, or jeans) should not be worn, as these items can interfere with pool filtration and disinfection systems. They also become heavy when wet, increasing the risk of drowning. Please ensure your swimwear is family-friendly and appropriate for a public aquatic environment.

I am not swimming; do I need to pay an entrance fee?

There is a non-swimming entry fee payable upon entry to our centres. This charge contributes to the sustainability and maintenance of the facility, helping to cover the cost of providing amenities and services such as seating, cleaning, shade, and bathroom facilities.

Are lockers available for use?

Yes, lockers are available and are provided free of charge. We recommend using lockers for any valuables. Please speak to reception staff if you have any questions about using the lockers.

I am a Fitness Passport member; how can I access the facility?

Please come into our centres to register your Fitness Passport membership with staff at reception. We will require you to have the Fitness Passport app to check in and we will set up a profile for you access to our facilities and make bookings for group fitness classes.

Why do I always need to sign in via the QR code for Fitness Passport?

Fitness Passport pays for your entry to our centre by attendance. When a Fitness Passport member scans the QR code, and checks in via the app, your attendance will be paid for. The staff will ask you to scan in at reception to mark your attendance to our centre and print any tickets required.

What is the cleaning schedule for the centre?

Cleaners are present at our centres throughout the day to ensure the facilities remain clean and enjoyable for use. Night cleaners also attend our centres after closing hours to provide a deep clean. Bath and changerooms facilities are checked regularly throughout the day. Should you identify something that needs the attention of a cleaner, please let our team know.   

The spa, sauna and steam room at Ashfield Aquatic Centre are cleaned every day at 12.30pm, and at the end of every day. 

How old do you have to be to use the gym?

Children from the age of 13 are permitted to use our gym facilities with the following conditions:

• Children over 13 and under 16 must be actively supervised at all times by a responsible adult over the age of 16 and are restricted to bodyweight exercises and cardio equipment only.
• Children 16 and over may use the gym without supervision.
• Children under 13 are not permitted in the gym or the gym changerooms.

How do I book a group fitness class?

Bookings are required for group fitness classes and can be made online through our Group fitness timetables page. 

How far in advance can I book in for group fitness classes?

All bookings open 5 days and 1 hour prior to the class start time. The booking window is set to maintain fairness and manage demand. It gives everyone equal opportunity to book popular classes.

Why do I need a ticket for group fitness classes?

Tickets help us make sure classes aren’t overbooked and that we meet safety standards, including having the right number of lifeguards for aquatic sessions. They confirm that everyone has paid or checked in correctly and help us track who attends and manage non-attendance fairly. Attendance numbers are used to help shape future timetables and ensure classes match member demand.

How early should I arrive for a class? 

We recommend arriving at least ten minutes before your class, to collect your ticket from reception and prepare for the class. If you arrive more than five minutes late for a land-based class, or ten minutes late for an aqua class, you will not be able to collect a ticket or attend the class. This helps avoid disruption to the class and prevents potential for injury as important safety aspects of the class may have been missed.

What is the dress code for the gym and studios?

Members and casual participants must be suitably clothed at all times while on the facility premises. When exercising in studios or the gym, shirts or singlets and appropriate covered training shoes are required for safety and hygiene. No bare chests and no bare feet.

Can I attend a class that is fully booked? 

For safety and enjoyment, class capacity limits are adhered to. If you do not have a ticket for a class, you will be asked to leave. We recommend checking availability regularly, as spaces become available due to cancellations. 

Why aren’t we allowed to do supersets in the gym?

Supersets, where you move quickly between two or more exercises without resting, can make it difficult to keep equipment available and safe for other members, especially during busy times.

We ask members to complete one exercise at a time so that everyone has fair access to machines and weights, and to help keep the gym floor clear and safe.

If you’d like to include supersets in your training, speak with one of our gym instructors or Personal Trainers who can suggest safe and considerate ways to structure your workout.

Do you have Personal Trainers available at any time?

We don’t have full-time trainers on site. Sessions are arranged directly with your trainer at a time that suits you both. If you can’t find a day or time that works, we can reach out to other trainers to help find a suitable option.

What is the correct gym etiquette?

To keep the gym safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone, please follow these guidelines:

• Bring and use a towel – for hygiene and comfort.
• Wear proper footwear and a shirt – for safety and respect.
• Store bags in lockers – to keep walkways clear.
• Share equipment thoughtfully – allow others to “work in” during rest periods.
• Wipe down machines and mats after use – leave them ready for the next person.
• Re-rack weights – return dumbbells, plates, and other equipment after use.
• Be mindful of noise and phone use – keep the atmosphere positive for all.

Do I have to book into my class every week? 

No, once you have booked into a class, this booking continues weekly until you cancel your enrolment. Lessons only pause on public holidays and over the summer holiday period. 

Am I allowed to pause my swimming lessons?

While we maintain continuous enrolment to ensure consistent progress, we offer flexible makeup lessons to support your family's schedule. Simply mark your child as absent in the parent portal at least 24 hours in advance, and you can use up to 6 makeup lessons per year, perfect for vacations, family commitments, or unexpected events. This way, your child never misses out on their swimming progress.

What happens to my class in bad weather?

If your class is indoors, it will continue to run in all weather conditions. If your class is outdoors, it will continue to run except in unsafe weather conditions, e.g. lightning. Classes cancelled due to unsafe weather conditions will be credited.

Do you run lessons in the school holidays?

Classes run year-round including during school holidays. Lessons only pause on public holidays and over the summer holiday period.

How long until we progress to a new level?

All levels, Tadpoles and above are skills based. We encourage students to swim outside of lessons to reinforce their skills learnt in class. Students receive unlimited access to all Inner West Aquatic facilities outside of lessons (with paying supervising adult).

Please keep in mind that each student progresses through levels at different paces.

Do I need to be in the water with my child?

A parent/guardian is required to be in the water in the Water Babes and Water Tots classes. Early Tadpoles is a transition class where you work with the instructor to build your child's independence in the water without an adult.

I did the online quiz, what if the level is wrong? 

Wet deck supervisors/Aquatics Programs officers can assess the suitability of a level on your first lesson and can move you to the level deemed appropriate if necessary. Please note while all efforts will be made to find the correct class at a time that works for you should you or your child be in the incorrect level, we cannot guarantee a suitable class time will be available.

Am I allowed to photograph or video my child during lessons?

Unfortunately, for safety reasons, photography and filming are strictly prohibited within the pool area. There is a dedicated Learn to Swim banner where you can take photos if you wish to celebrate your child’s accomplishments.

What happens if the pool closes due to contamination?

If a pool contamination affects your child’s lesson, they may be relocated if possible, otherwise, a credit may be applied to your account for the cancelled lesson.

Can I access the gym or spa/steam/sauna during my child's lesson?

No, all children must be supervised at all times, including during lessons, in line with Royal Lifesaving NSW guidelines. We ask all parents remain poolside during your child’s lesson.

I am interested in enrolling my child in Squads . How do I get my child assessed for Squads?

Visit our Squads page on our website and fill out the Squad Assessment enquiry form. Our staff will contact you to confirm the next steps.

Dawn Fraser Baths

Is the pool heated?

No. Dawn Fraser Baths is a tidal harbour pool with natural seawater, and it is not heated.

How does the water get in and out, and do you treat the water?

Dawn Fraser Baths is a natural saltwater harbour pool that fills and drains with the tides of the Parramatta River/Sydney Harbour. It doesn’t rely on pumps or filtration systems. Instead, water moves freely through the surrounding shark‑netted barrier as the tide rises and falls. The water is not chemically treated.

What animals are in the water? 

A variety of animals have been within the ocean pool throughout its lifespan. Some creatures you can find while swimming there today include the Smooth Toadfish, Estuary Stingray, Moon Jellyfish, Sydney Rock Oysters, Leatherjacket, Silver Bream, Brown Sea Slug, Gloomy Octopus and the Great Cormorant Bird.

What distance is the pool from the pontoon to the wall?

‎The swimming area is a 50-metre, multi-lane pool with lane ropes for lap swimming.

How do I find out if water polo or other events are on?

‎Dawn Fraser Baths 50m pool area may be unavailable at times due to bookings, including training and games by Balmain Water Polo. Please check our Swim page to view lap lane availability.

Can I bring water polo balls?

Water Polo balls can only be used in designated areas, during organised training or Water Polo matches. Please note balls are not permitted outside of these supervised sessions.

Is there food available at the Baths?

Yes. Our kiosk offers a range of hot food including hot chips, chicken nuggets, chicken tenders and chiko rolls. We also have fresh sandwiches, slushies, ice creams and a selection of hot and cold drinks, including tea and coffee.

Can you hire or make a booking at the baths for an event?

Dawn Fraser Baths is available for sports club, community groups, private functions, schools and corporate bookings. To request a booking, please submit a booking request form through our Bookings and Venue Hire page. Once this request has been received we will contact you to advise the next steps in the booking process. Please note Facility Hire Bookings must be made with a minimum of seven (7) days' notice prior to your event.

How can I check if Dawn Fraser Baths will be affected by rainfall and may close temporarily?

Dawn Fraser Baths is a harbour pool located in Sydney Harbour, a natural water environment that is generally in good condition. The harbour water is however subject to variable conditions due to external impacts and weather patterns. Inner West Council and other Councils are guided by the NSW government through Sydney Harbour Beach Watch daily bulletin which is updated daily at 6am using a traffic light-based model:

• Green: During favourable conditions, the daily bulletin will show a ‘green’ status indicating the water is suitable for swimming.
• Amber: Indicates water quality may be affected, and pollution may be present – swimmers are advised when the status is ‘amber’ to swim using their own judgement.
• Red: The harbour water is not suitable for swimming. The Baths will not open when the ‘red’ status is advised.
  In addition, in the unlikely event of local issues affecting the water quality at the Dawn Fraser Baths, the site is visually inspected daily by staff for any impacts that may have occurred and follow stringent pre-opening checks based on all the information available each day.

Swimmers are encouraged to check the Beach Watch site for the most up-to date readings following rainfall or can contact our team on 9392 5400 for further information. Any interruptions to general opening hours will be shown on our website.

Closure notices due to water quality are published on our website, however calling Dawn Fraser Baths before you arrive is the quickest way to check closures, as updates appear on our phone system first.

Inner West Council will continue to work with the NSW Government Sydney Harbour Beach Watch daily bulletin to ensure this program is delivering a comprehensive and reliable service to the community.

Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre

Do you run any fitness classes at FDAC? 

Yes, we offer group fitness classes at FDAC, including aqua classes and Tai Chi. Visit our Group fitness timetables page to view our classes and make a booking.

Do you run Learn to Swim lessons at FDAC? 

No, we do not run Learn to Swim lessons at FDAC. Learn to Swim lessons are available at our major centres, Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre, Ashfield Aquatic Centre and Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre. Visit our Learn to Swim page for more information and to enrol. 

Do I need to book the BBQ area?

Yes, the BBQ must be booked in advance. You can submit a BBQ hire request through the Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre facilities page, or by emailing fdac@innerwest.nsw.gov.au or calling 9392 5400.

Steel Park Waterplay Park

Is there shade at the Steel Park Waterplay Area?

Yes, the park has ample shade from trees and shade cloths, making it comfortable for families on warm days. 

Are there bathrooms near the waterplay area?

Yes, toilet facilities are located close to the waterplay area, providing convenient access for visitors. 

Is parking available at Steel Park?

Yes, Steel Park has a nearby car park with around 25 spaces, though availability may vary.

Is there an entrance fee?

No, there’s no entrance fee. The waterplay features within the park and are free for everyone to use, so you can simply turn up and enjoy the space whenever the park is open.