Empowering Parents: Must-Know Pool Safety Regulations to Prevent Drownings

The Cook Government has taken steps to enhance the safety of private swimming pools by implementing recommendations derived from a thorough review of private pool safety barrier requirements.

This review was initiated following a report by the Ombudsman Western Australia focusing on reducing incidents of children drowning.

Amendments to the Building Regulations 2012 will streamline the process by eliminating the requirement for a building permit for the installation of most fences used as safety barriers.

Effective June 21, the new regulations will mandate local governments to conduct inspections of swimming pools within 30 days post-installation to verify compliance with safety standards.

This measure aims to ensure adherence to building standards from the outset, thereby bolstering safety protocols.

Moreover, local governments will continue to carry out comprehensive physical inspections and compliance checks every four years.

In the event of non-compliance with safety barriers, local governments will be obliged to re-inspect properties within 60 days.

Additionally, they are mandated to furnish Building and Energy with information concerning overdue pool barrier inspections.

These legislative changes stem from a public consultation held in 2022, following the commencement of drafting modifications in 2021.

The reforms align with the ongoing efforts of the Cook Government in response to the Ombudsman report, which include facilitating professional development for pool inspectors and monitoring the performance of local governments.

The implementation of these reforms underscores the Cook Government’s commitment to enhancing public safety standards and mitigating risks associated with private swimming pools.

Minister For Commerce and Women’s Interest Sue Ellery says drowning remains the leading cause of accidental deaths for kids.

“Tragically, drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for young children in Australia and most of these devastating incidents happen in private swimming pools.

“Our Government took the Ombudsman’s recommendations seriously and moved to implement changes to improve safety around private swimming pools.

“Homeowners can also play their part to ensure pool gates are secured and that safety barriers are well maintained.

“While close and active supervision by an adult remains the best safety measure to keep young children safe around water, pool safety barriers play a vital role in restricting access.”

More information on pool safety barriers is available at demirs.wa.gov.au/rules-for-pools.

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