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Public Swimming Pools

Under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 public swimming pools and aquatic facilities are required to be registered with Council.

The Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2019 assist aquatic facilities to operate in a way that protects the health and welfare of the Victorian public which includes protection from the risk of infection through tainted water.

There are two aquatic facility categories.

A Category 1 aquatic facility is a swimming pool, spa pool or interactive water feature that is: 

  • used by members of the public free of charge or for a fee
  • used in association with a class or program that is offered free of charge or for a fee
  • located at the premises of an early childhood service, school or other educational institution
  • located at a premises where residential aged care services are provided
  • located at a public hospital
  • located at a multipurpose service
  • located at a denominational hospital
  • located at a private hospital
  • located at a privately-operated hospital within the meaning of section 3(1) of the Health Services Act 1988.
  • Ice baths

A Category 2 aquatic facility is a swimming pool or spa pool that is used by members of the public and located at the premises of:

  • a residential apartment complex
  • a hotel, motel or hostel.

Only Category 1 aquatic facilities are required to register with Council under the Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2019

Both Category 1 and Category 2 aquatic facilities must have a Water Quality Risk Management Plan and ensure they are compliant with the regulations and Water Quality Guidelines. 

In order for your Category 1 aquatic facility to be registered, please contact the Environmental Health Unit on 9599 4417 or envhealth@bayside.vic.gov.au

Once an onsite visit is conducted to your facility by an Environmental Health Officer, all legislative requirements have been met and the applicable fee is paid your registration will be granted and a Certificate of Registration will be issued.

The registration fee amount is $200 for up to 3 pools and $50 for each additional pool.

A Water Quality Risk Management Plan describes how aquatic facilities will manage water quality risks, comply with the Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2019 and therefore protect the public’s health. Both Category 1 & 2 Aquatic Facilities must have a Water Quality Risk Management Plan. 

A template and guide for developing a plan is available on the Department of Health and Human Services website. 

  • Register your aquatic facility with Council.
  • Create and follow your Water Quality Risk Management Plan.
  • Undertake water sampling as outlined in your Water Quality Risk Management Plan.
  • Notify Council’s Environmental Health Unit of all failed water samples within 24 hours.
  • Follow your Water Quality Risk Management Plan and  Council instruction when water samples fail or if you are notified of a gastroenteritis outbreak at your premises.
  • Maintain records of onsite testing and daily operations for at least 12 months from the date the record was made.
  • Provide adequate training to all staff members.
  • Ensure the aquatic facility is kept in a clean, sanitary and well maintained condition.

Follow the Department of Health and Human Services healthy swimming recommendations. 

  • conducting inspections and routine water testing of the facility
  • investigating complaints and outbreaks relating to your premises