In 2012, a comprehensive review of the Swimming Pools Act 1992 was finalised.
Key changes to the legislation
The review identified a number of changes to enhance the safety of children under the age of 5 years in and around backyard swimming pools. The key changes to the legislation are as follows:-
- The development & implementation of the Swimming Pools Register (to commence by no later than 29 April 2013
- Any NSW swimming pools to be registered by owners by 29 October 2013.
- Pool owners require a compliance certificate before the sale or lease of their property from 29 April 2014.
The Swimming Pools Amendment Act 2012 commenced on 29 October 2012 and makes a number of amendments to the Swimming Pools Act. Pool owners will now be required to:-
- Register their swimming pools on an online register.
- Self assess and state in the register that to the best of their knowledge their pool complies with the applicable standard.
- Provide a valid swimming pool compliance certificate before selling or leasing their property.
Penalties will be imposed for owners who fail to register their swimming pool. If you would like clarification of these amendments or need to know if your pool meets the legislative requirements, please contact your Local Council or Accredited Certifiers.
