Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC)
Melbourne's premier sports and aquatic centre, offering Olympic pools, a state-of-the-art gym, and multi-use sports courts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for swimming
Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC)
Best Time
Fewer crowds for swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Melbourne's premier sports and aquatic centre, offering Olympic pools, a state-of-the-art gym, and multi-use sports courts.
"One of the best multi-sporting facilities in and around Melbourne city."
Book Courts in Advance
Popular courts, especially for badminton and squash, get booked quickly. Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Check Event Schedules
MSAC hosts many events. Check their calendar to see if your visit coincides with a competition or to avoid crowds. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Olympic-Sized Pools
Aquatic Centre
Dive into world-class swimming facilities, including an Olympic pool perfect for laps or training.
Multi-Sport Courts
Sports Hall
Shoot hoops, spike a volleyball, or rally on the badminton courts. A hub for various indoor sports.
Squash and Racquetball
Courts
Challenge friends to a game on the dedicated squash and racquetball courts, including doubles.
Gym and Fitness
Gymnasium
State-of-the-art gym facilities offering a wide range of equipment for all fitness levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at MSAC
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Courts in Advance
Popular courts, especially for badminton and squash, get booked quickly. Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Check Event Schedules
MSAC hosts many events. Check their calendar to see if your visit coincides with a competition or to avoid crowds. :calendar:
Consider Public Transport
Parking can be difficult. Public transport or ride-sharing is often easier, especially for events. :bus:
Bring Your Own Gear
While some equipment is available, bringing your own racquets or swim gear ensures comfort and availability. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Courts in Advance
Popular courts, especially for badminton and squash, get booked quickly. Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Check Event Schedules
MSAC hosts many events. Check their calendar to see if your visit coincides with a competition or to avoid crowds. :calendar:
Consider Public Transport
Parking can be difficult. Public transport or ride-sharing is often easier, especially for events. :bus:
Bring Your Own Gear
While some equipment is available, bringing your own racquets or swim gear ensures comfort and availability. :athletic_shoe:
Explore 'Come and Try' Days
Diving Victoria offers 'Come and Try' sessions for beginners. A great way to experience a new sport! :diving_mask:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MSAC is widely praised for its excellent, Olympic-standard facilities, particularly its aquatic centre and sports courts. Visitors appreciate the variety of activities available and the friendly, helpful staff. However, some guests have experienced issues with rude staff and poor organization during basketball events, and parking can be a significant challenge on busy days.
"First time back @ MSAC since renovations.
Awesome facilities & super cool Crew 😃
Mitch I believe to be the area manager has been swimming 🏊 there from ten 🔟 years young.
He’s a very personable guy with terrific ability dealing with people.
I’m signing up as the Pensioner rate is just ok"
collee chappell
"basketball stadium is shocking service, there are not enough seats anywhere, staff were rude, not allowing us to sit anywhere but the few chairs they provide. Refs were terrible and rude, and completely bias in a FINAL game. Asked for a supervisor and no one would come and watch. Just terrible management. Such a nice stadium and they can’t afford good staff or refs? Absolutely shocking. This lady I’ve meet many times and is always so terrible. Fire her please"
Riley Davis
"One of the best multi-sporting facility in and around Melbourne city. Options for indoor games (basket ball, volleyball, badminton) and an aquatics centre as well. Traffic / parking will be a headache on a busy day..other than that fantastic experience."
Jesto Jose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MSAC is located at Albert Park. You can reach it by tram, bus, or car. Tram routes 96, 109, and 12 stop nearby. Parking is available on-site, but can be limited during busy periods. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, MSAC offers parking facilities. However, it can become congested, especially on event days or during peak hours. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to drive.
Trams are a convenient option, with routes like the 96, 109, and 12 stopping close to Albert Park. Buses also serve the area. Check PTV for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
MSAC is designed to be accessible, with ramps, lifts, and accessible facilities throughout the centre.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and DiDi are a convenient way to get to MSAC, especially if you want to avoid parking concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to MSAC for general use (swimming, gym) typically requires a casual entry fee or membership. For specific events like competitions or tournaments, separate tickets may be required. Check the MSAC website for current pricing and booking information.
MSAC's opening hours vary depending on the day and specific facilities. It's best to check their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times for the aquatic centre, gym, and sports halls.
Yes, booking sports courts like badminton and squash in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times. You can usually book online through the MSAC website or by contacting them directly.
Typically, there are different fee structures for swimming, gym access, and potentially for specific programs or events. Concession rates may also be available. Visit the MSAC website for detailed pricing.
MSAC regularly hosts sporting events, competitions, and championships. You can find information about upcoming events on their official website or their social media channels. 
🎫 🏊 Aquatic Centre
MSAC boasts a range of pools, including an Olympic-sized 50m pool, a 25m indoor pool, and a warm water pool, catering to lap swimmers, recreational swimmers, and those seeking rehabilitation.
Absolutely! The 50m Olympic pool is ideal for lap swimming. There's also a 25m indoor pool available. Check lane availability as it can be used for events or programs.
MSAC offers swimming lessons for various age groups and skill levels, from beginners to advanced swimmers. It's a great place to improve your swimming technique.
Diving Victoria runs 'Come and Try' sessions at MSAC, offering beginners a 45-minute introduction to diving basics. It's a fun way to experience the sport.
Yes, the warm water pool at MSAC is specifically designed for therapeutic purposes and rehabilitation, offering a comfortable environment for recovery and gentle exercise.
🎫 🏸 Sports & Fitness
MSAC is a multi-sport facility offering badminton, basketball, volleyball, squash, and racquetball. You can book courts for casual play or join social competitions.
Yes, MSAC has doubles squash courts available. It's mentioned as one of the locations for doubles hardball squash in Australia.
MSAC features a comprehensive gym with a wide array of cardio machines, weights, and functional training equipment, suitable for all fitness levels.
While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, multi-sport centres like MSAC often offer a variety of group fitness classes. It's best to check their schedule for current offerings.
MSAC hosts a badminton social every Sunday. You can find more information and potentially register through Badminton Victoria or MSAC's social media.
🎫 🏎️ Formula 1 Connection
MSAC is located within Albert Park, which is the home of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. While MSAC itself is a sports and aquatic centre, its proximity to the F1 circuit means it can be a hub for visitors during the Grand Prix weekend. +1
Yes, MSAC is situated within Albert Park, where the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix circuit is located. You can easily access the park and walk or cycle parts of the track. +1
MSAC itself is not typically a venue for F1 racing events, but it might host related fan activities or be a convenient location for attendees during the Grand Prix.
Albert Park buzzes with excitement during the F1 Grand Prix. The area around MSAC can be busy with fans, and there's a general festive atmosphere. +1
MSAC is a sports and aquatic centre, not an arcade or gaming venue. While you might find people discussing F1 games, you cannot play them at the centre itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The centre also runs diving holiday programs for children aged 8-15, providing a fun and active way for kids to try a new sport during school breaks. Parents can also utilize the gym facilities while children swim, or participate in family-friendly activities together. Remember to check the schedule for specific family swim times or programs. 🏋️ Fitness Enthusiasts
The Olympic-sized pool is also a major draw for swimmers looking to maintain or improve their fitness through rigorous lap training. The convenience of having both a gym and a world-class pool under one roof makes it an ideal location for a comprehensive workout. Consider a membership for regular access and potential discounts. 🏸 Badminton & Squash Players
and features dedicated squash and racquetball courts, including those suitable for doubles play. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aquatic Experience at MSAC
+1Beyond lap swimming, MSAC is a hub for aquatic sports and activities. It has hosted major events like the 16th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m)
and is a venue for diving programs. The 'Come and Try' diving sessions are a popular introduction for beginners, making the centre accessible to a wide range of interests. +1Visitors often praise the quality of the pools and the general upkeep of the aquatic centre. It's a place where both elite athletes and casual swimmers can find what they need, making it a cornerstone of Melbourne's sporting landscape.
Sports and Fitness Hub
+1 These courts are often busy with casual players, social leagues, and organized tournaments, reflecting the vibrant sporting community in Melbourne. Booking courts in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend play. For racquet sport enthusiasts, MSAC offers dedicated squash and racquetball courts, including facilities for doubles play, making it a known spot for this niche sport in Australia.
This makes MSAC a one-stop shop for both team sports and individual fitness goals.Reviewers frequently highlight the excellent facilities and the variety of sports available. The ability to transition from a swim session to a game of badminton or a gym workout makes MSAC a highly convenient and appealing destination for active individuals and groups.
The Albert Park Circuit Connection
Social media content often features the Albert Park Circuit in conjunction with MSAC, showcasing the scenic parkland that hosts both the F1 races and the aquatic centre. This creates a dual appeal for visitors, offering both sporting activities and the chance to be in the vicinity of a world-famous motorsport event.
While MSAC doesn't host F1 races, its presence in Albert Park means it's a convenient spot for attendees looking for a place to swim or work out before or after race events, or for locals who enjoy the park's amenities year-round.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit