Aquatics at the 1950 British Empire Games made its fourth appearance at the Commonwealth Games with both Swimming at the Commonwealth Games and Diving at the Commonwealth Games being included again. Water Polo at the Commonwealth Games made its debut but only featured two nations.
There were four diving events and 13 swimming events contested. The events were held at the Newmarket Olympic Pool, which had been built in 1939. The water polo venue was originally advertised as being held at the Shelly Beach Baths but it is unclear as to whether this venue was used.
Australia topped the medal table with seven gold medals.