City of Ryde invited feedback on the Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre (RALC) - Resident Pensioner Scheme Review from 19 January to 22 February 2026. During this period, our community shared their feedback via the online survey, email and at community drop-in sessions.

The community engagement outcomes were reported at the Council meeting on Tuesday 24 March 2026 and helped inform Council's decision.

Council Resolution

At the Council Meeting held on Tuesday 24 March 2026, Council endorsed a new discount entry scheme for eligible City of Ryde resident pensioner and health care cardholders wishing to use the RALC.

Changes to the scheme will come into effect from 1 July 2026.

The cost of entry for eligible City of Ryde resident pensioner and health care cardholders will be:

• Swim Only = $1 (compared to the adult rate of $10.50*)
• Swim, Spa, Sauna and Steam (off-peak) = $2 (compared to the adult rate of $16.90*)
• Swim, Spa, Sauna and Steam (peak) = $10 (compared to the adult rate of $20*)

* The adult rates listed above are the current entry prices (FY2025/26).

There will be membership options available, including 12-month, 3-month and 20-visit pass packs, as outlined in the Council Resolution.

The current Scheme providing a 100% discount to the RALC for City of Ryde residents with eligible pensioner and health care cards will remain in place for the current financial year and cease on 30 June 2026.

The new pricing models (outlined in the Council resolution) will be reflected in the draft 2026/27 Fees and Charges which will be publicly exhibited in May 2026.

City of Ryde Mayor Trenton Brown and Acting Chief Executive Officer John Angilley visited the RALC last week to talk to staff and pool users about the new scheme. Mr Angilley stated, "There is a deficit of $1.2 million projected for the current financial year and solely modifying the Pensioner Scheme does not resolve this deficit. A full review of the operation of RALC is required to ensure its equitable and sustainable future."