In many remote and regional Aboriginal communities, access to a swimming pool is more than a lifestyle amenity—it’s a powerful tool for building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.
The Remote Pools Project is a practical, proven initiative that delivers far-reaching benefits in some of Western Australia’s most remote communities. More than just a place to swim, these pools are essential infrastructure—helping to improve health, support education, and create safer, more connected communities.
These pools serve as vital community hubs, offering a safe and supervised environment for children and families to cool off during extreme heat, stay active, and build essential water safety skills.
By providing reliable access to aquatic facilities, the Remote Pools Project plays a crucial role in reducing drowning risk, promoting school attendance, and supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. Beyond the water, the program also fosters local employment and training opportunities—strengthening community capacity, ownership, and long-term resilience.
With consistent funding and partnership, these pools become sustainable community assets—improving lives today and setting a foundation for stronger futures.
The Remote Aboriginal Swimming Pools project is funded primarily through the Department of Communities with additional contributions made through BHP, Kids Institute and IXOM.
THE COOL POOL CONCEPT
At the heart of the Remote Pools Project is the Cool Pool concept—creating a safe, welcoming hub that supports the health and wellbeing of the whole community.
Pools are open daily with free entry for all community members, ensuring equitable access to safe water spaces regardless of age, ability, or income. These pools offer more than just a place to swim—they provide vital opportunities for physical activity, social connection, and the development of lifelong healthy habits.
Whether its families cooling off during extreme heat, children learning to swim, or community members gathering for events, the Cool Pool is a place that brings people together and strengthens community spirit.
Where We Work: Reaching WA’s Most Remote Communities
The Remote Pools Project supports some of the most isolated communities in Western Australia, including: Burringurrah, Jigalong, Warmun, Bidyadanga, Yandeyarra, Fitzroy Crossing, Balgo, Kalumburu and Warmun.
These locations span vast distances and face unique environmental and social challenges, making access to safe aquatic facilities even more vital. Each pool is a lifeline—providing not just a place to swim, but a safe space for children to learn, families to connect, and communities to thrive.
Community Benefits
The safe operation of swimming pools, together with delivery of health and wellbeing programs co-designed with local communities, creates powerful, long-term benefits for communities.
- Stronger swimming and water safety skills
- Increased participation in physical activity
- Better health and wellbeing outcomes
- Meaningful local employment opportunities
- Boosted school attendance and engagement
- Youth engagement and leadership development
Social Impact
The Remote Pools project supports stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. Through access to safe aquatic spaces, the program promotes:
- Stronger family and community connection
- Connection to Country
- Improved health and wellbeing
- Economic participation
- Greater self-determination and autonomy
- Improved sharing of cultural knowledge
By embedding these values into local aquatic programs, the project helps remote communities thrive—socially, culturally, and economically.
No School No Pool – Encouraging School Attendance
The No School, No Pool policy is a proven strategy used in remote communities to support school attendance and positive youth development. By linking access to the community pool with regular school participation, the program provides a powerful, positive incentive that encourages children to engage in learning. It’s a community-driven approach that not only strengthens educational outcomes but also builds lifelong habits around responsibility, health, and wellbeing.
Delivered in partnership with local schools and community leaders, No School, No Pool reinforces the message that education is vital—while still ensuring that all children have the opportunity to swim, connect, and grow in a safe, supportive environment.
