New pool safety and registration requirements now to begin in 2016

New pool safety and registration requirements now to begin in 2016 - 11 March 2015

Swimming pool owners now have an extra year to ensure they obtain a new or updated pool compliance certificate.

Under new State Government legislation, a compliance certificate will be required before the sale or lease of a property with a pool can be finalised.

The change to the process is part of significant amendments introduced after a comprehensive review of the NSW Government’s Swimming Pools Act in 2012, and follows on from last year’s requirement for all pools to be registered with the State.

The change was planned to come into effect on 29 April 2015, but has now been extended by the State until 29 April 2016.

It is estimated there are more than 3500 pools in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area.

Council has inspected 60 per cent of all pools since beginning the process in 2011 and has had positive responses from pool owners about ensuring their backyard pool meets safety standards.

“The legislation, registration and compliance program introduced by the State Government is aimed at preventing further tragedies in backyard pools,” Council’s Manager Development Services Colby Farmer said.

“Pool owners can download swimming pool checklists from www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au that highlight what basic things to look for when checking their pool and ensuring it remains compliant and up to safety standards.”

Simple tips for pool owners to keep their pool area safe include:

• Does the gate open outwards and self-close and latch from any open position?
• Are there objects or trees close to the pool fence that children could use to gain access into the pool area?
• Is there a resuscitation sign displayed? Has your family planned what to do in the event that you needed to use it?

If you are thinking of selling or leasing your property, you are encouraged to contact Council early to arrange a pool inspection.

A Swimming Pool Compliance inspection can be undertaken by Council officers and a swimming pool compliance certificate issued for a fee of $150.

For more information, pool owners can visit www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au or Council’s website www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/swimmingpools.

The website contains a number of useful downloadable brochures, detailing swimming pool laws and safety checklists to help pool owners better understand their responsibilities.

Penalties for not complying have been increased by the NSW Government to $5500.