Elsie Lange
The rising costs of council-run leisure centres in Hume is causing concern among locals.
During public question time at a meeting on August 8, a resident asked council why leisure centre membership rates were increasing despite a budget surplus of more than $130 million.
“We have plenty of privately owned gyms around Hume, but the leisure centres are an accessible option for young people, retirees, and people on low incomes,” the resident said.
In response, council said it aimed to ensure its leisure facilities remained affordable, but had experienced a 3.5 per cent increase in leisure utility costs.
“While we actively seek to minimise the impact of increased costs on our members, we also need to balance this with the needs of all ratepayers across Hume city,” council said.
“As a result, council increased its 2022-23 leisure membership fees by 3 per cent.”
Council said it recognised the increase could be challenging for some users due to cost of living pressures, but remained “committed” to helping the community to participate in leisure activities.
Sunbury residents took to local groups to query the increased cost of casual gym costs.
“The Sunbury Aquatic Leisure Centre had casual gym passes for $14 and $9 concession … it’s now $28,” one resident said.
Another resident said it was “way too expensive” for them.
The leisure centre has recently undergone an upgrade, replacing and installing entry and exit doors, improved family and accessible changerooms, upgraded a ramp and walkway within the centre and pathways to it, upgraded the Ligar Street crossing and improved accessible parking.
At the same meeting, councillor Jarrod Bell called for council to investigate the feasibility of turning the Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre into a 24-hour facility.
