Swimming Pools and Spas

Pool owners in Parramatta are reminded that following some basic guidelines can go along way when it comes to being safe around the pool.

Under the Swimming Pools Act 1992, the owner of a swimming pool has the responsibility to ensure that the pool is at all times surrounded by a complying child-resistant pool safety barrier. Pool safety barriers must be maintained in a good state of repair as an effective and safe barrier restricting access to the pool.

What is pool safety?

Pool safety is a system of child-resistant barriers that restrict access to the pool area by children. Two factors are consistently identified with pool drownings and near drownings; access to the pool and adult supervision.

Why is pool safety important?

Although child deaths in NSW fell almost 40% in the past decade, the number of child drownings in backyard pools has not changed. The majority of child drownings occur in private pools/ spas.

If you own a pool or rent a property with a pool, you have a direct impact on pool safety.

What can I do?

Check there are adequate pool safety barriers in place separating the pool from the residence, adjoining properties and the neighbourhood.
Are these barriers compliant with current legislation?
Ensure all of the pool safety barriers are maintained and operating eg check gates are self-closing and self-latching.
Supervise children when using the swimming pool.
Make sure pool gates are kept closed at all times.
Keep articles, objects and structures at least 900mm clear of the pool fence at all times, eg chairs, pot plants.

Additional Information

The relevant legislative documents for pool safety are:

Swimming Pools Act 1992
Swimming Pools Regulations 2008
Australian Standard AS1926.1-2007

All of these documents can be found at Council's Library or Customer Service Centre.

NOTE: Refer to the Regulations to inform you of the requirements rather than solely relying on AS1926.1-2007 as the Regulation excludes/restricts some clauses of AS1926.1-2007 for pools in NSW.

Who to contact

Additional information can be obtained from your Accredited Certifier (for pool construction) or Council's regulatory services section by phoning Council on 9806 5000.