Compliance2 min read·30 April 2026·VIC

Do you need a pool barrier compliance certificate in Victoria?

VIC introduced mandatory pool registration in 2020. Here's what Melbourne and regional pool owners need to know about Form 23 and the compliance rollout.

Yes — and the rules in Victoria have tightened significantly since 2020.

What changed in 2020?

All pools and spas in Victoria must now be registered with their local council. Following registration, the barrier must be inspected and a Certificate of Pool/Spa Barrier Compliance (Form 23) lodged with council. This isn't optional — councils can issue fines for non-compliance.

The staged rollout

The VBA rolled out compliance deadlines in stages based on when your pool was built. Many Victorian pool owners are still working through this process, meaning inspectors are in high demand.

When do you need a certificate?

  • After your initial registration with council
  • Every 4 years for ongoing compliance
  • When selling or leasing a property with a pool

Who can inspect?

Only a VBA-registered building inspector or surveyor can issue a Form 23. Make sure whoever you book is licensed under the VBA — not just a general tradesperson.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a pool barrier compliance certificate in Victoria?
Yes. All pools and spas in Victoria must be registered with their local council, and a Certificate of Pool/Spa Barrier Compliance (Form 23) must be lodged with council. This has been mandatory since 2020 under the Building Regulations 2018.
What is a Form 23 in Victoria?
Form 23 is the Certificate of Pool/Spa Barrier Compliance in Victoria. It is issued by a VBA-registered building inspector or surveyor after they have inspected the pool barrier and confirmed it meets the requirements of AS 1926.1.
How often do I need a pool barrier inspection in Victoria?
In Victoria, a pool barrier compliance certificate must be renewed every 4 years. A new certificate is also required when selling or leasing a property with a pool, and after any changes to the pool barrier.
Who can inspect a pool barrier in Victoria?
Only a building inspector or surveyor registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) can issue a Form 23 certificate in Victoria. Using an unlicensed inspector is not legal and the certificate will not be valid.
What happens if I don't register my pool in Victoria?
Councils can issue infringement notices for unregistered pools. Fines vary by council but can be significant. It is a legal requirement to register your pool and obtain a compliance certificate within the timeframes set by your council.
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