AS 1926.1 Pool Safety Standard - What It Means for Your Pool

What is AS 1926.1?

AS 1926.1 is the Australian Standard for swimming pool safety barriers. Published by Standards Australia, it sets the minimum requirements for the design, construction, and ongoing performance of fences, gates, walls, windows, and other barriers that separate young children from a pool or spa.

State governments do not write their own detailed fence specifications from scratch - instead, they reference AS 1926.1 in their legislation. This means understanding the standard is central to understanding pool compliance anywhere in Australia.

Which version applies to your pool?

Three versions of AS 1926.1 are currently referenced across Australia:

• AS 1926-1986 - the original standard, may apply to pools built before September 2008 in NSW
• AS 1926.1-2007 - applies to pools built between September 2008 and April 2013 in NSW
• AS 1926.1-2012 - the most widely used version; applies to pools built or modified from May 2013 onwards
• AS 1926.1:2024 - the current edition, released August 2024; state adoption varies

If your pool barrier has been modified or renovated at any point, the current standard at the time of modification generally applies - even if the original pool is older. Always verify with your local council or a registered certifier which version governs your specific situation.

What does AS 1926.1-2012 require?

The core requirements cover four areas: barrier height and gaps, the non-climbable zone, gate performance, and materials.

Barrier height and gaps

• Minimum height of 1.2 metres measured from outside ground level
• Maximum gap at the bottom: 100mm (80mm when accounting for barrier flex)
• Maximum gap between vertical components: 100mm
• Horizontal components must be spaced at least 900mm apart
• Any projection or indentation in the non-climbable zone must not exceed 10mm
• Perforated materials with apertures 13mm or smaller: 1.2m minimum height
• Perforated materials with apertures greater than 13mm: 1.8m minimum height

Non-climbable zone (NCZ)

A 900mm arc measured from the top of the fence must be kept clear of climbable objects on the outside (approach side). A 300mm clear zone is also required on the inside (pool side). The NCZ for boundary fences is measured differently - see our dedicated NCZ guide for full details.

Gate performance

Gates must swing away from the pool area, self-close from any open position, and self-latch automatically on every close. The latch mechanism must be located where a young child cannot easily reach it.

Materials

The standard does not mandate specific materials - glass, aluminium, steel, and timber can all be compliant if they meet the structural and dimensional requirements. What matters is that the barrier performs to the standard, not what it is made of.

What changed in AS 1926.1:2024?

Standards Australia released an updated version in August 2024 after a comprehensive review. The major changes include:

• Plants within the NCZ: A new dedicated section addresses garden growth inside the non-climbable zone - one of the most persistent compliance failures across Australia.
• Gate latch height: The latch release mechanism must now be positioned at least 1,400mm above any foothold below it - a reintroduced and more specific requirement.
• Gate durability testing: Increased testing cycles for hinges and latches to ensure long-term reliability, not just performance when new.
• Clearer diagrams: Improved illustrations throughout to reduce the ambiguity that often led to inconsistent interpretations in the field.
• New provisions: Added sections for indoor pools, combined structures that form barriers together, and windows used as alternative pool access controls.

Whether the 2024 version is enforceable in your state depends on whether local legislation has been updated to reference it. In NSW, AS 1926.1-2012 remains the compliance standard as of mid-2026. Check with your council or certifier for current requirements in your state.

Does AS 1926.1 apply to spas?

Yes. Any vessel capable of holding water to a depth of 30cm or more is covered by the standard - including spa pools, swim spas, and plunge pools. Some spa pools may qualify for a lid-based exemption depending on their size and construction, but this is assessed case by case.