MOVES to strengthen safety controls around swimming pools have received the tick of approval from Port Stephens Council and the NSW Royal Surf Lifesaving Society.
A review released by the state government into the Swimming Pools Act 1992 proposes a number of changes to the act, including initiating a state swimming pool register, mandatory inspection of pool barriers when a home is being leased or sold, and regular council pool inspections.
Port Stephens Council manager of development and environmental safety Matthew Brown welcomed the review, while surf life saving CEO David Macallister said it moved more into line with tougher regulations on pool safety in other states.
"We support the move for compliance and infringement notices," Mr Brown said.
Ways in which the local government could cover the cost of one of the key recommendations - regular pool safety barrier inspections- are on the agenda.
Pool owners could be hit with an initial fee of $150 for an inspection, and $100 for regular follow-ups.
There are more than 4600 pools on the Port council's register.
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