Stage one of the new laws started on 1st December 2009 applying to new outdoor residential pools. The laws included the introduction of the latest swimming pool safety standards; regulation of temporary fencing for pools; mandatory follow-up final inspections and introduction of the latest CPR signage standards.

Stage two mostly affects existing swimming pools. The Queensland Development Code Mandatory Part 3.4 came into effect on 1st December 2010 requiring both new and existing pools to be upgraded to comply with the standard within five years unless sold or leased. The application of the new pool safety laws includes indoor pools and pools associated with hotels and motels, caretaker residences, caravan parks, backpackers, hostels, mobile home parks and home stay accommodation.

Pool safety certificates were made mandatory following the sale or lease of residences with a regulated pool. This commenced on 1st December 2010, although the lease requirements were extended for 6 month by the Bligh Government in the aftermath of Cyclone Yasi and the floods. This extension is due to expire in early July 2011.

The laws require all swimming pools, portable pools and spas deeper than 300mm to be included in a pool safety register. Additionally, mandatory inspections by local government, are required following immersion incidents of children under five years of age.