Nine people, including eight children and one adult, were taken to hospital after a chemical incident at the Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Melbourne last night.

Firefighters were called to the facility in the city’s north around 6:15 p.m. following reports of a strong gas smell inside.

On arrival, emergency crews found around 40 individuals affected by chemical exposure.
Paramedics transported six people to Sunshine Hospital and three to the Royal Children’s Hospital, all reported to be in stable condition.

Hazmat teams from Fire and Rescue Victoria conducted tests and detected sodium hydrogen sulphate at the site.

Approximately 200 people were evacuated, and the centre was ventilated before being declared safe to re-enter by 8:16 p.m.

WorkSafe and Victoria Police have launched investigations into the incident, with WorkSafe confirming that inspectors are monitoring the site to ensure health and safety protocols are followed.

Swimming lessons resumed at the centre this morning.

9News has contacted Hume City Council for comment but has not yet received a response.