Pool and spa safety a Victorian Government priority
The first Kids and Pools Safety Summit was hosted by Planning Minister Matthew Guy in Melbourne today in response to the number of preventable drownings and injuries across Victoria.
Mr Guy said the Victorian Coalition Government is committed to introducing more effective safety requirements for pools and spas to enhance the safety of families and their loved ones in their backyards.
"Drowning is the most common cause of preventable death for children aged under five years and we have a responsibility to tackle the issue of pool fencing and safety generally.
"Today's summit discussed a range of ideas designed to make a real impact on the tragic toll that claimed two young lives in Victoria last financial year.
"I have committed to undertaking further consultation and examine strategies to ensure pool and spa installations comply with the legislation and regulations.
"We cannot stand by and allow families to continue to be affected by something that can be addressed sensibly," Mr Guy said.
Earlier this year the Building Commission, Victorian Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Committee and the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors provided proposals to increase the safety of swimming pools in Victoria.
Mr Guy considered the proposals and established the Kids and Pools Safety Summit comprising a range of industry, stakeholder and government agencies.
Five key ideas were discussed at today's summit:
- Establish a pool register to enable the assessment of all domestic pools;
- Regular assessment of pool fences;
- A targeted audit and compliance program;
- An awareness campaign; and
- Mandatory cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) signage.
Mr Guy said the views from the summit will be used to further develop and refine any proposed reforms and he thanked attendees for their enthusiasm and valuable input.
Further consultation with government agencies and industry bodies will be required before any legislative change can be introduced.
Download PDF 
