General information only, not legal advice. Always check with the QBCC before making any decision.
Pool safety inspectors play a key role in keeping Queensland children safe around water. Every time a property with a regulated pool is sold or leased, it needs a current pool safety certificate, and only a licensed pool safety inspector can issue one. If you’re thinking about becoming an inspector, here is the path from start to finish.
Step 1: Complete the 11067NAT Course in Swimming Pool Safety Inspections
In Queensland, you need to complete the nationally accredited 11067NAT Course in Swimming Pool Safety Inspections before you can be licensed. The course teaches you to inspect pool barriers against Queensland’s pool safety standard and the related legislation, including:
- the Building Act 1975 (Qld) and the Building Regulation 2021 (Qld)
- the Queensland pool safety standard (QDC MP 3.4, which references AS 1926.1 and AS 1926.2)
- how to inspect a pool, record evidence and identify non-conforming features
- issuing pool safety certificates and nonconformity notices within the required timeframes
- the code of conduct for pool safety inspectors and how to apply for your licence
Pool Safety Barrier Training (RTO 41251) runs the 11067NAT course as a 3-day, face-to-face course in Coopers Plains, Brisbane, every month. See the next QLD course dates.
Step 2: Arrange professional indemnity insurance
The QBCC requires professional indemnity (PI) insurance before it will issue, renew or restore a pool safety inspector licence. Your evidence (a certificate of currency or schedule of insurance) must:
- show at least $1,000,000 of cover per pool safety inspector
- list “Pool Safety Inspections” in the business description
If a company holds the policy on your behalf, you also need the QBCC’s PI declaration form naming that company. Speak to an insurance broker early, because you’ll need the paperwork for your application.
Step 3: Apply to the QBCC for a Pool Safety Inspector licence
With your course completed and your insurance in place, you can apply to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). You’ll provide:
- the completed Pool Safety Inspector licence application form
- a certified copy of your photo ID
- evidence of your right to work in Queensland
- your technical qualification, i.e. your statement of attainment for 11067NAT
- your PI insurance evidence
Applications can be lodged in person at a QBCC service centre or by post. The QBCC asks for the licence fee after it receives your forms. Allow up to 8 weeks for processing, which includes the QBCC’s “fit and proper person” checks. Licence fees are set by the QBCC and rise each 1 July, so check the current amounts on the QBCC website.
Step 4: Start inspecting
Once licensed, you can inspect regulated pools anywhere in Queensland, including Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. You’ll check whether a pool barrier complies with the pool safety standard, then either:
- issue a pool safety certificate if the pool complies, or
- issue a nonconformity notice explaining what needs to be fixed, if it doesn’t.
Many inspectors work independently. Others add pool safety inspections to an existing building, fencing or pool business.
Step 5: Keep your licence current
A pool safety inspector licence must be renewed every year. The QBCC sends a renewal notice about 20 business days before your licence expires. To renew, you’ll need to:
- complete any required continuing professional development (CPD) and provide evidence
- provide current PI insurance evidence
- keep your details up to date with the QBCC
If your licence lapses, you can’t perform pool safety inspector functions until it’s restored. You can restore it within 3 months for a fee; after that, you must apply again.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a pool safety inspector in Queensland?
The 11067NAT course takes 3 days. After that, allow time to arrange insurance and up to 8 weeks for the QBCC to process your licence application.
How much does it cost?
Our 11067NAT course is $1,499. You’ll also pay the QBCC licence fee and your professional indemnity insurance premium. Both vary, so get current figures from the QBCC and your broker.
Can I work in other states with a Queensland licence?
Each state licenses or registers inspectors under its own rules. In Victoria, for example, inspectors are registered as Building Inspectors (pool safety) by the Building and Plumbing Commission. See our Victorian VBAISP2020 course.
Want to know what the job involves day to day? Read What does a pool safety inspector do?
Planning your budget? See what it costs to become a pool safety inspector (course, licence fees and insurance).
Ready to start?
Book now for the next 11067NAT course or call us on 07 3180 3148.