Pool Safety Standards
Pool safety standards apply to pools and spas located on small residential premises (less than 1.8 hectares).
Under the Swimming Pool Safety Act 2004 there is one standard for pools installed since 1 January 2003 :
Under the Swimming Pool Safety Act 2004 there are two types of standards for pools installed prior to 1 January 2003:
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The Modified Australian Standard (including the Non-standard Safety Provision); or
The Modified Australian Standard
Owners of pools and spas constructed after 1 January 2003 must comply with the Modified Australian Standard within seven days after the completion of their pool and before the pool is filled deeper than 300mm. Owners of earlier pools may also choose to meet the Modified Australian Standard. Certification to the Modified Australian Standard will be assessed by the Water Safety Branch.
Under the legislation the standards have been modified so that a neighbouring property will not affect a pool or spa's compliance. If a shared boundary fence is being used as part of your pool barrier, you are required to notify your neighbour in writing that a pool is next door.
Standards Australia is the peak non-government standards body in Australia and measures products against a defined Australian or International Standard. There are currently over 6,000 Australian Standards.
With respect to swimming pool fencing, the Australian Standards are directed at obtaining a barrier that will make it difficult for a young child to gain access to a pool area, whether under, over or through the fencing.
The relevant Australian Standards for swimming pool fencing are:
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1926.1 Part 1: Fencing for swimming pools; and
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1926.2: Location of fencing for private swimming pools.
Community Safety Standard - for pools and spas constructed prior to 1 January 2003
The Community Safety Standard requires a pool owner to self declare that their pool or spa is enclosed by a barrier that will effectively prevent a child under five years of age from obtaining unsupervised access to a pool area. Safety guidelines and a declaration form are available from the Water Safety Branch on the Publications Page on this web site.
Under the Community Safety Standard your neighbour’s property will not affect your pool or spa’s compliance. If a shared boundary fence is being used as part of your pool barrier, you are required to notify your neighbour in writing that a pool is next door.
When does the Community Safety Standard apply?
Owners of pools or spas constructed before 1 January 2003 will need to meet the new minimum standard at property sale or change of lease. They may need to meet the new standard at transfer.
How do I get a copy of the Australian Standards?
The Australian Standards may be purchased from the Territory Construction Association, cnr Winnellie Road and Hickman Street, phone 8922 9666 or purchased for download from the Australian Standards website. The Standards can also be viewed at a Water Safety Branch office.
Where can I get more advice?
Free advice and assistance is available from a Pool Safety Adviser on 1300 301 059 or by email to watersafety@nt.gov.au.