A package of improvements to the pool was unveiled yesterday.

The facility, opened in 1972, now has upgraded change rooms, solar hot water and new disabled facilities.

Seating has been replaced and male and female change facilities have had an overhaul.

A disability hoist has been installed for pool access, while new disabled and family change rooms have been built.

Works on the project, which began in April, were paid for by the Federal Government's Regional and Local Community Infrastructure program.

Ballarat MHR Catherine King said the pool was an important part of the community.

"These facilities are part of the heart of our community," she said.

Ms King said the works had created jobs for 45 people.

Ballarat City Council chief executive officer Anthony Schinck said the upgrade would make the pool more family-friendly.

"This redevelopment creates a safer, brighter family facility and offers disabled residents great access for health and recreation," Mr Schinck said.

The pool is the biggest of the city's five outdoor swimming pools. More than 60,000 people pass through its gates each year.

Its 20-week summer season will begin this Friday.

The pool will mark the first day of the season with free entry and free access to the waterslide.

The rest of the city's outdoor pools are scheduled to open by the first week of December.