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Protecting Children From Drowning This Summer

07 December 2018

As the weather warms up Victorians are reminded to check on their backyard pool and spa fences, ahead of new regulations that will be introduced by the Andrews Labor Government next year.

The Victorian Building Authority has prepared a voluntary register and new self-assessment tool for owners to check their fences, with a mandatory register coming into force late next year.

Victorians are encouraged to use this summer to get their pools ready for new regulatory regime, which will include regular inspections of pool and spa barriers to reduce tragic backyard drownings.

Between January 2000 and April 2017, 25 children drowned in Victorian swimming pools and spas. Around 13 children every year are hospitalised due to a near-drowning, and a third of these sustain ongoing impairment.

While the new inspection regime is more than a year away, owners who seek certificates of compliance this summer from registered inspectors will give themselves time to address fencing issues before the new inspection regime kicks in.

The Government will work closely with councils, stakeholders and the community in implementing the tough new laws, which passed Parliament in September and will better protect children across the state against the dangers of poorly maintained barriers.

Victorians are already setting out to improve their pool fencing, with more than 3,000 checklists downloaded in the past week. To use the self-assessment tool and sign up to the pool register, go to vba.vic.gov.au/consumers.

Adult supervision is still the best way of protecting children from the dangers of backyard pools and spas.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne

“For the first time in Victoria’s history we will have a complete database of all pools and spas and a dedicated inspection process to ensure fences are maintained. This is incredibly important for families with young children.”

“This summer is a great opportunity for families to get ready for the new regime that will come into place next year.”

Quote attributable to the Chief Executive of the Victorian Building Authority Sue Eddy

“We at the VBA encourage all pool owners to register their pools as soon as possible and to use the self-assessment tool to ensure they have the best pool safety measures protecting their families.’’

Quote attributable to General Manager of Kidsafe Victoria Jason Chambers

Children drown quickly and silently. Together with a compliant pool barrier, it is important that children are always actively supervised by an adult when in and around water to help keep them safe.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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