Resources
Checklists for Self Assessment
The following VBA self assessment checklists will help you assess the safety of your barrier. The checklists are based on the relevant barrier standard associated with the date that the pool or spa was constructed.
Self assessment checklist 1 – Pools & Spas Installed before 8 April 1991
Self assessment checklist 2 – Pools & Spas Installed between 8 April 1991 and 30 April 2010
Self assessment checklist 3 – Pools & Spas Installed from 1 May 2010
Kidsafe Victoria 12-month mini checklist.
Know your Council Requirements
FAQ
How do I register my pool or spa:
You will need to register your pool or spa with the relevant council online or calling by calling customer service.
When do I have to lodge the certificate of barrier compliance:
The due date for lodging your certificate of compliance depends on the age and construction date of your swimming pool or spa.
| Pool or spa construction date | Date compliance certificate must be lodged |
|---|---|
| On or before 30 June 1994 | 1 June 2022 |
| From 1 July 1994 until 30 April 2010 | 1 June 2023 |
| From 1 May 2010 until 31 October 2020 | 1 June 2024 |
| After 1 November 2020 | Within 30 days of the occupancy permit/certificate of final inspection |
How often do I need a pool barrier inspection:
Every four years from the Initial Inspection. Council will confirm the next lodgment due date.
What if the barrier does not meet the applicable barrier standard:
If your Pool or Spa is found to be non-compliant during the initial inspection, owners will be required to undertake the works detailed in the Inspection report within a 60 day timeframe. Once all rectification works are complete, a mandatory re-inspection will be required to ensure all identified non-compliant items meet the applicable Australian Standard.
How do I determine the construction year of my pool or spa:
After registering the pool/spa with the relevant council you will receive a registration acceptance notice which outlines the construction date and applicable barrier standard.
What does a pool and spa safety inspection involve:
Inspections involve a thorough assessment of all aspects of the safety barrier, including gates, fences, latches, height, materials and positioning.
In what circumstances would a certificate of pool and spa barrier non-compliance be immediately issued (Form 24):
- within 60 days of the inspection —
- the barrier is not capable of being made compliant with the applicable barrier standard; or
- the non-compliance of the barrier with the applicable barrier standard poses a significant and immediate risk to life or safety;
- the barrier does not comply with the applicable barrier standard in any of the following ways
- a door or gate forming part of the barrier, when in the closed position, is able to be opened by a person who is unable to reach the opening mechanism for that door or gate;
- a door or gate forming part of the barrier is unable to be completely closed;
- any part of the barrier is less than 1 metre in height measured above ground level from the approach side.
Do I need to be present for the inspection:
No. As long as we can gain access to the area no one is required to be present; a detailed report will be sent which includes photos and detailed explanations on rectification works.
How do I pay for the Inspection:
An invoice will be issued via email confirming your booking. Payment is due on the day of the Inspection. We accept online and in-person payments – options include AMEX, Apple Pay™, BPAY, Google Pay™, Mastercard, PayPal and Visa, or you can Direct Transfer to the nominated bank account.
For more information on keeping children safe around pools and spas, visit the following websites.
Swimming pools and spas | Victorian Building Authority (vba.vic.gov.au)
Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Australia – Kidsafe Victoria
