Online pool registration

Ararat district residents can now register their pools and spas via an online form.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said under new State Government legislation, all residents with a pool or spa must register them with the council by June 1.

Dr Harrison said the new regulations covered privately owned permanent pools, indoor, above-ground and outdoor spas, hot tubs, and some relocatable pools capable of holding water of more than 30 centimetres in depth.

He said small inflatable wading pools that did not require assembly did not have to be registered.

The State Government has introduced the legislation to reduce child drownings.

In Victoria, there have been 27 fatal drownings in private swimming pools and spas during the past 19 years.

“These new laws really focus on ensuring children are safe around backyard pools and spas,” Dr Harrison said.

“It’s vital to ensure barriers are safe, secure and maintained to do the job.

“The council has developed an online form that makes it easy for residents to register their pools and spas, available on our website www.ararat.vic.gov.au with a link on the home page. Once the form has been lodged, council officers will be in touch to arrange an inspection and payment.”

Dr Harrison said residents could phone the council’s building officer Mandy Tucker on 5355 0227 for details and visit website www.vba.vic. gov.au/consumers/swimming-pools/ registration-requirements for more information about the new regulations.