Pool safety

New pool safety laws

Between 1 January 2004 and 30 June 2010, 41 children under 5 years of age drowned in Queensland swimming pools.

Pool fencing prevents childhood drowning. This is why new pool safety laws were introduced on 1 December 2010.

Property owners with a regulated pool (for example pools associated with house, townhouse, unit, hotel, motel, backpackers' or caravan park) must comply with a new pool safety standard by 30 November 2015, or earlier if the property is sold or leased.

Pool owners, must also register the swimming pool details by 4 November 2011. After this date fines of up to $2000 may apply if the pool is not registered.

Under the new laws:

• pools deeper than 30cm must
  • be registered
  • be fenced
  • have a current pool safety certificate before renting the property or when selling the property
• you must display a CPR sign near your pool.

Read more about the new pool safety laws.

Pool safety tips

• Always supervise children in or around pools or spas.
• Make sure your pool is fenced and the fence complies with pool safety standard.
• Install a striker or latch to make the gate self-closing
• Adjust your gate to make sure it opens away from the pool area.
• Regularly maintain gardens around the pool to ensure children cannot climb into the pool area.
• Enroll your child in a water awareness class and learn to swim classes.
• Learn CPR and keep your skills up to date with yearly refresher courses.

Kids Alive program

Kids Alive—Do the Five is a water safety program that educates the public on 5 important steps to reduce the risk of preschool drowning. The website also has educational videos and resources for children.