Local Government Minister Don Page met this week with Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, and Member for Londonderry, Bart Bassett, at the Nepean Aquatic Centre to discuss the NSW Government’s proposed changes to swimming pool legislation to protect toddlers and to ensure backyard pools comply with regulations.
The new laws covering the State’s 340,000 backyard swimming pools will include a compulsory Statewide register; certification of pools as compliant; mandatory inspections before a property with a pool can be sold or leased; and mandatory periodic inspection of pools associated with tourist accommodation and unit blocks.
Mr Bassett said that whilst proper supervision is critical, it is important that every pool owner takes responsibility to make sure their pool complies with current regulations.
“Every child drowning is a tragedy to families and communities, not least because it is preventable through ensuring responsible supervision and compliant barriers,” he said.
On average six children drown in NSW backyard swimming pools each year.
