Having a swimming pool in the backyard of your property is very exciting and fun. The cool joy of swimming is a perfect way to escape Melbourne’s heat. But if you want this fun to be uninterrupted without any mishaps, it’s your responsibility to keep it safe for you, your family and especially for your kids. In 2022–23 alone, more than 272 people died from drowning in swimming pools, and the reason was poor fencing or no fencing around the swimming pool. There are certain laws surrounding pool fences in Victoria that you must adhere to. Whether you already have a swimming pool or you are thinking of having a new one, pool fencing installation should be an important part of your purchasing decision, both in terms of safety and aesthetics.
In this blog, we will explore the legal requirements of pool fencing, its necessity, types, installation process, and cost. The purpose of this blog is to provide professional support to help make your swimming pool a secure place for your kids and family.
Table of Contents
- Why Pool Fencing is Necessary in Victoria
- What Makes a Pool Fence Compliant in Victoria?
- DIY Or Professional Pool Safety Fence Installation: Which One’s Right for You?
- Pool Fence Types: What Are Your Options?
- How Much Does Pool Safety Fencing Installation Cost in Melbourne?
- How We Can Help You Install a Pool Fence with Ease in Melbourne
Why Pool Fencing is Necessary in Victoria
In Australia, pool fencing is a legal requirement designed to reduce the risk of drownings, especially for young children (15 deaths were recorded in swimming pools in 2023/2024). Less than 5 of these were attributed to public pools, meaning that residential and temporary accommodation pools account for the majority of these fatalities. The Australian Standard AS1926.1 outlines clear safety benchmarks that all residential pool barriers must meet.
If you’re located in Victoria, improper or non-compliant pool safety fence installation can result in significant fines and even a stop on pool usage until issues are resolved. Fencing that meets the code is proven to reduce this risk dramatically.
Failure to comply can result in:
- Fines from your local council
- Failed pool inspections
- Insurance issues in the event of an accident
“The evidence shows a 50 per cent reduction in drowning deaths in the 0-4 age group in the past 10 years, and pool fencing legislation has played a significant role in that reduction.”
What Makes a Pool Fence Compliant in Victoria?
To pass inspection and meet VBA requirements, your pool fencing must meet specific standards:
Fence Height
- Minimum of 1.2 metres from the ground to the top of the fence
Gaps
- No more than 100mm under the fence or between vertical elements
Gate Requirements
- Must be self-closing and self-latching from any open position
- Latches must be at least 1.5 metres above ground level
Non-Climbable Zone (NCZ)
- 900mm clearance around the outside of the fence
- Includes any objects (furniture, trees, BBQs) that could be used to climb over
Regular Inspections
- Every 4 years by a registered building inspector, as per Victorian regulations
It’s important to know and follow pool safety fence installation rules in Melbourne for both safety and legal compliance.
DIY Or Professional Pool Safety Fence Installation: Which One’s Right for You?
If you want to do it by yourself, you can save a lot of money in the short term, but it might lead to costly errors. It is also possible that you fail the inspection. Many councils report that the majority of failed compliance checks are due to incorrectly installed DIY fencing.
Hiring a professional ensures your fence is:
- Compliant with the pool safety fence installation Vic laws
- Installed with the right tools and materials
- Backed by certifications and warranty
Contact our pool fencing professionals to handle everything from measurement to final inspection.
Pool Fence Types: What Are Your Options?
Choosing the right material is just as important as meeting the legal requirements. Here are the most popular types of fencing used in Melbourne:
1. Frameless Glass Fencing
Premium option offering unobstructed views, strength, and durability.
2. Semi-Frameless Glass Fencing
A mix of glass and aluminium posts for style and structural support.
3. Aluminium Pool Fencing
Cost-effective, rust-resistant, and available in various powder-coated finishes.
4. Steel Mesh Fencing
Rarely used in homes today, but still compliant if built to standard.
Choosing the right style ensures your fencing increases both security and street appeal. But if you’re living in Melbourne, we recommend you go with glass fencing as it is widely adopted due to its stunning appearance.
Consult with our pool fence experts and get a precise cost estimate tailored to your requirements.
| Fence Type | Features | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Frameless Glass | Modern, clear view & luxury look | Low |
| Semi-Frameless Glass | Affordable, stylish & secure | Low |
| Aluminium/Steel | Affordable & durable | Moderate |
How Much Does Pool Safety Fencing Installation Cost in Melbourne?
The cost of pool safety fence installation in Melbourne depends on several factors and can vary significantly based on the material, site conditions, and design preferences.
Key Factors That Affect the Cost:
- Size and layout of the pool area
- Ground slope or accessibility issues
- Custom design features like gates or corner panels
Of course, as with most things, there can be some added hidden or lesser-known costs associated with having a glass pool fence installed. But if you go with compliant pool fencing, it adds long-term value to your property with peace of mind.
How We Can Help You Install a Pool Fence with Ease in Melbourne
Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right fence. With over two decades of experience in pool safety fence installation in Melbourne, our team at Melbourne Glass Pool Fencing knows what it takes to get it done right.
Why locals trust us:
- We follow all VIC pool fencing laws to the letter
- 100% compliant installations, every time
- Full compliance with AS1926.1 and local laws
- Customised design and installation
- High-quality materials sourced for durability
- Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
- Deep understanding of pool safety fence installation in Vic
We proudly cater to all Melbourne suburbs, ensuring no location is too remote.