The gist of the legislation
All ACT pools must meet the new safety standards in regard to barriers before 1st May 2028.
The important parts, at a glance
We’ve picked out the key parts of the legislation and made them as easy as possible to read and understand.
1.
The legislation defines a pool as:
- a pool with a water depth capacity of 300mm or more
- a demountable swimming pool or flotation tank
- an external spa
2.
A pool is not defined as a pool if it is:
- an ornamental pond or water feature
- an inflatable pool
- on commercial premises (except mixed use commercial / residential)
3.
Pools built after the 1st May 2013 should already be compliant and have a certificate. If your pool was built before 1st May 2023, and does not have a certificate then you'll need to check that your pool meets the safety standards or if it doesn't take action to rectify this and lodge for a compliance certificate or exemption by the 1st June 2028.
4.
The compliance inspector will issue a certificate which states either:
- The pool complies ; or
- The pool does not comply but does not pose an immediate safety risk – owner will be issued with a rectification order with a date for compliance within 6 months of the order; or
- The pool does not comply and poses an immediate risk – owner will be issued with a rectification order with works to be completed within a shorter timeframe (We are still awaiting confirmation from Government on this timeframe).
5.
Compliance certificates are valid for 5 years after lodgement or 30th April, 2032 whichever is the later.
6.
Review ACT pool barrier safety for pool compliance information here.
