Draft Swimming Pool Barrier Policy

Council is inviting you to have your say on the draft Swimming Pool Barrier Policy.

Drowning is one of the major causes of death for NSW children under the age of five. Brain damage and other serious injuries are also associated with near-drowning experiences each year in Australia. There are more than 14,000 swimming pools located within the Wollongong Local Government Area, yet it is estimated that over 80% of backyard swimming pools currently do not comply with the Swimming Pools Act. In 1992 the Department of Local Government (DLG) enacted the Swimming Pools Act to improve swimming pool safety. In late 2012, the DLG updated the Swimming Pools Act. The changes made focus on increasing pool safety awareness for pool owners and users. The revised Act also aims to improve compliance with swimming pool barrier standards.

In response to the changes made, Council has developed a draft Swimming Pool Barrier Policy. The draft Swimming Pool Barrier Policy similarly focuses on increasing pool safety. It also outlines new requirements for pool owners so that swimming pool barrier standards and compliance rates are better met in the Wollongong area. Other issues covered in the draft Policy include responsibilities for pool owners, inspections, compliance certificates and how to register your pool.

To have your say, read the draft Swimming Pool Barrier Policy and the Frequently Asked Questions and complete a Feedback Form - either by downloading a copy or submitting directly to this website. For further information please contact Engagement at engagement@wollongong.nsw.gov.au or on 4227 7060.

Feedback must be submitted by Wednesday, 30 October, 2013.