9 hospitalizations after the local Australian swimming pool 'chemistry incident'

A chemical incident in a public swimming pool in Melbourne, Australia, was reportedly hospitalized and hundreds were evacuated on Friday night.

Firefighters were summoned to the Broadmeadows Leisure Center on the northern end of the city at about 6:15 p.m. Friday, amid reports of gas odor. About 40 people were reportedly affected by the odor, and nine were taken to local hospitals.

Eight children and one adult were reportedly hospitalized with difficulty breathing and skin irritation, but thankfully, there did not appear to be any serious illness.

According to News.au, about 200 people were evacuated from the building, while Victoria (FRV) Hazmat personnel carried out sweeps and ventilated. Hazmat team members registered positive readings for sodium sulfate (that can be used to adjust pH levels in water).

Two hours later, the facility was deemed to be safely re-entered. A spokeswoman for the Houme City Council confirmed it could also open on Saturday as usual.

“After a thorough assessment of Worksafe immediately following the incident, it was confirmed that the facility could be safely reopened and reopened Saturday morning,” the spokeswoman said.

The spokesman also said the incident is under investigation, with the focus on determining the cause to make sure that nothing like this has ever happened.

“We thank our staff and emergency services for their quick and professional responses, and for the community's understanding and support,” the spokeswoman said.

You can find the official website of Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Center here.

There were 9 hospitalizations following a “chemical incident” in local swimming pools in Australia, first appearing on June 21, 2025