An exploration of management perspectives on wellbeing outcomes in the aquatic and recreation industry

Public aquatic and recreation centres are a cornerstone of leisure infrastructure within Australia. However, the extent to which these facilities set community well-being as a specific strategic goal or measurable outcome is unknown. This paper adopts a qualitative exploratory approach with the aim of understanding key issues and challenges within these centres relating to obtaining well-being outcomes. Findings highlight a unique and challenging industry due to competing pressures and the often difficult relationships between these facilities and local government. Critical factors impacting the focus on wellbeing include employee engagement, technology, the built environment, and diversity and inclusion. Further, wellbeing benefits vary for different user groups and commercial/financial pressures can impact wellbeing outcomes. In conclusion, this paper provides an important contribution to the leisure literature but also establishes a research agenda for further investigation that will both contribute to scholarly understanding and provide industry with new insights for evidence-based decision making.