All residential pool and spa owners will need to be registered with Wellington Shire Council and have a Certificate of Compliance, under new State Government regulations.
The new regulations will come into effect next year, to ensure all pools and spas meet safety standards to reduce the incidence of fatal and non-fatal drowning in children aged under five.
With about 1,000 household pools and spas in Wellington, each of them will need to be registered and have regular inspections to ensure a current Certificate of Compliance.
It is not only in-ground pools that require safety fencing. Above-ground pools, private spas, jacuzzis and hot tubs are also a drowning risk and need adequate barriers that meet safety standards.
Once these safety measures are installed, maintenance is also important to ensure continued compliance.
Penalties will apply for residents who do not comply with the new regulations.
The new regulations will come into effect on 1 December 2019, but won’t be enforced until April 2020, in order to give pool and spa owners enough time to comply.
For further information visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/fences