1 /5 Hollie Rosenberg: Discriminatory policies toward parents - avoid if you have young children or pregnant.
I was refused entry to Goodlife Mooroolbark with my infant son (under 12 months) securely restrained in his pram. When I asked staff to show me the written policy prohibiting this, they couldn’t provide any documentation - just stating “kids aren’t allowed” without being able to explain why or reference any official rules.
After escalating this issue, management admitted the restriction was based on “implied assumptions” rather than actual documented policies. This means members are subject to undocumented rules they can’t review before joining or challenge when applied. Staff showed no discretion or common sense in distinguishing between a securely restrained infant and mobile children who might pose actual safety concerns.
What’s particularly concerning is that other Goodlife clubs actively market “Mums and Bubs” classes and provide childcare for babies as young as 8 weeks old, yet Mooroolbark refuses entry to restrained infants with parents. This inconsistency suggests discriminatory practices rather than genuine safety concerns.
The policy transparency failures are unacceptable - paying members deserve clear, written policies rather than being subject to staff assumptions. Management’s initial response contained factual inaccuracies about their own company’s services, though they did ultimately offer fee-free cancellation.
If you are a new parent with a baby/infant that would remain in the pram (not walking around the gym), be aware that this club operates on undocumented restrictions that effectively exclude mums returning to training without childcare.
Would not recommend to parents or anyone who values transparent business practices.