At the heart of Sydney’s north-west, the Sport & Aquatic Centre at Macquarie University has long been known as a hub for movement, wellbeing and community. But in recent years, it has made a concentrated effort to strengthen the sense of belonging that patrons have when visiting.
Under the leadership of the Campus Life team, the centre has taken meaningful steps to ensure every swimmer regardless of ability can access the water with confidence, dignity and independence.
Why Accessibility Matters
For Macquarie University, investing in accessible equipment such as the Pelican Pool Hoist wasn’t about ticking a compliance box, it was about equity.
The centre recognised the importance of:
- Meeting modern accessibility standards
- Supporting the diverse needs of their university and local community
- Removing physical and psychological barriers to participation
- Creating an aquatic space where everyone feels truly welcome
The Pelican Pool Hoist enables patrons with limited mobility to enter and exit the pool safely and comfortably restoring independence and enhancing the overall aquatic experience.
This decision reflects a broader commitment: ensuring aquatic programs improve wellbeing for all members of their community.
A Whole-of-Campus Commitment to Inclusion
The aquatic centre’s accessibility is supported by Macquarie University’s wider inclusive design approach. Across campus, visitors benefit from:
- Wheelchair-accessible pathways
- Ramps and lifts
- Tactile ground indicators
- Accessible bathrooms
Within the aquatic environment itself, the centre has introduced:
- The Pelican Pool Hoist
- A walk-in ramp for gradual water entry
Together, these features ensure that access is built into the experience.
Real Impact in the Water
Since introducing the hoist, the centre has seen tangible change.
Swimmers with mobility needs including aquatic members, squad swimmers and aqua-aerobics participants now have safer, more comfy and dignified access to their pools.
The impact has included:
- Increased confidence
- Greater independence
- Stronger participation in aquatic programs
- A sense of dignity
Access to the water is more than physical. It’s emotional, social and empowering.
Community Partnerships That Make a Difference
Accessibility at Macquarie is not just equipment-based it’s community-driven.
The centre has expanded its capacity to:
- Deliver swimming lessons for people with special needs
- Cater for multi-class swimmers
- Partner with NextSense School
These partnerships ensure inclusive programming is embedded into daily operations.
The Most Rewarding Outcome
The team can attest to how rewarding it is to see more people participating confidently and independently.
Watching swimmers join a class, train in the pool, or simply enjoy time in the water without barriers has strengthened the centre’s sense of community.
Inclusive equipment and thoughtful design changes lives.
Advice to Other Aquatic Centres
Macquarie University’s message to other facilities is clear: Accessibility is an investment in community wellbeing, not just infrastructure.
Their advice:
- Start by understanding your community’s needs
- Small improvements make a significant difference
- Choose reliable, user-friendly equipment
- Train staff so confidence matches capability
- Build a culture of inclusion (as well as compliance)
What's Next?
Macquarie University isn’t slowing down.
Upcoming initiatives include:
- Expanding family changerooms
- Introducing All Gender bathrooms
- Intentionally featuring people with disability in future promotions
These developments reinforce the centre’s ongoing mission to create a space where everyone regardless of age, ability or background can belong and thrive.
Partnering with Leaders
At Para Mobility, we are honoured to support forward-thinking organisations like Macquarie University. Their leadership demonstrates what is possible when access, dignity and community are placed at the centre of decision-making.
Drop by and Say Hello
Macquarie University offer both an aquatic wheelchair and a floating sling available to use in both their 25m indoor pool and their 50m outdoor pool. To request a booking and to discuss any special requirements please contact macsport@mq.edu.au or call 02 9850 7636.