Swimming pools and spas
Since 2000, 27 young children have fatally drowned in Victorian private swimming pools and spas. In at least 20 of those cases, the non-compliance of the safety barrier was a contributing factor.
We encourage the active supervision of young children in and around swimming pools and spas at all times.
In Victoria, the construction and installation of swimming pools, spas and safety barriers and barrier maintenance are all subject to the requirements of the Building Regulations 2018 (the Regulations).
Swimming pool and spa owners have a legal obligation to ensure that they maintain the effective operation of swimming pool and spa safety barriers. Gates and doors must remain closed, except when entering the pool or spa.
New pool and spa registration and inspection requirements
On 1 December 2019, new laws to improve swimming pool and spa safety came into effect in Victoria. They introduce new registration, inspection and certification requirements for property owners.
As a pool or spa owner you need to complete the following:
- Register your pool with your local council by 1 November 2020
- Organise an inspection of your pool barrier by a registered swimming pool inspector
- Rectify any issues identified by your pool inspection
- Submit a certificate of compliance to your council by the due date
For more information, including cut-off dates, see Registration requirements, Pool safety barriers and Pool and spa inspections and compliance.
The information provided in these pages will help property owners understand their obligations regarding swimming pools, spas and safety barriers. It covers the new registration, inspection and certification requirements. These pages will also help tenants and property agents understand who is responsible for pool and spa safety.
Find out more about:
- pool and spa registration requirements
- pool and spa inspection and compliance
- pool safety barriers
- installing a new pool or spa.
For more information on keeping children safe around pools and spas, visit Life Saving Victoria and Kidsafe Victoria.
Council and practitioner guide
We have created a Council and Practitioner Guide - Last updated, March 2021 (PDF, 371.19 KB) detailing the processes for registration, inspections and the issuing of compliance and non-compliance certificates.
This guide clarifies council and practitioner responsibilities under the building legislation in relation to swimming pool safety. It is not a substitute for the relevant legislation.