What GSPO Trends and Assessments Reveal About Pool Safety Performance
Every day, aquatic facilities across Australia work hard to create safe, enjoyable spaces for their communities. Behind every swim lesson, every family outing, and every lap session are teams committed to the same goal: ensuring everyone goes home safely.
At Royal Life Saving WA, we’re proud to support that commitment through two cornerstones of aquatic industry safety — the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations (GSPO) and the Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment (AFSA) program. Together, they not only define what best practice looks like, but also help facilities measure how they’re performing against it.
When we look at both — what the industry is searching for in the GSPO, and what we’re finding in our assessments — a clear picture emerges. The areas where facilities seek the most guidance are often the very same areas where improvement is needed most.
What the Industry Is Focusing On
The GSPO remains the go-to source for aquatic operational guidance. The top five searches in the GSPO database tell us where facility managers and operators are looking for clarity and support:
- Aquatic Supervision
- Training and Qualifications
- Aquatic Supervision Planning
- Child Safety
- Aquatic Signage
These searches show that the industry’s priorities are well-placed — supervision, competency, planning, communication, and child safety are the foundations of any effective aquatic safety system.
What the Data Is Telling Us
Through the Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment program, Royal Life Saving has been benchmarking safety performance since 1996. Facilities are assessed against the GSPO, Australian Standards, and state and territory legislation — giving a national picture of where the industry is performing well, and where it can grow stronger.
Across Australia, only 15% of aquatic facilities complete an AFSA. Of the 15%, 70% of them are repeat assessments — a strong indicator that operators who engage with this process are committed to continuous improvement. On average, facilities score 79% nationally, with consultant-reviewed results reaching 84%.
But it’s the detail beneath those numbers that tells the most powerful story.
How GSPO Search Trends and Assessment Findings Align
When we compare what operators are searching for in the GSPO to what our assessments reveal, the alignment is striking.
1. Training and Qualifications — 74% compliance
One of the top GSPO searches, and one of the key improvement areas nationally. Many facilities are working to strengthen induction processes, maintain up-to-date health declarations, and deliver regular in-service training. These are the foundations of effective supervision (another top search term) ensuring that lifeguards and instructors are both competent and confident in their roles.
2. Emergency Planning — 73% compliance
Effective emergency response depends on clear emergency planning, structured training, and ongoing communication — all themes reflected in the GSPO’s most-searched topics. Facilities with dedicated Emergency Planning Committees and robust training programs demonstrate stronger preparedness and safer outcomes.
3. Interactive Play Features — 73% compliance
Child safety is consistently among the top GSPO search terms, and it’s no surprise. Play features are designed for children yet pose unique risks. Facilities performing well here integrate child safety principles into design, signage, and supervision — ensuring play remains fun and safe.
4. Inflatables — 70% compliance
Inflatable equipment is increasingly popular but also demands careful planning and supervision. Clear signage, capacity limits, and risk assessments — all common GSPO searches — are key to managing these attractions safely.
In short, what facility managers are searching for in the GSPO reflects what our assessments identify as opportunities for improvement. This connection shows that the industry is paying attention to the right things — and that the GSPO remains the trusted guide to help close those gaps.
Why the GSPO Matters
The Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations provide the most comprehensive, evidence-based framework for managing risk and ensuring compliance in aquatic environments. From supervision standards to emergency management, the GSPO translates regulation and experience into clear, practical direction.
Subscribing to the GSPO gives your team access to the latest best practice — supporting safe operations, informed decision-making, and confidence in compliance. You can access the GPSO here.
Partnering for Continuous Improvement
Through the Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment, Royal Life Saving helps facilities translate the GSPO into action. Assessments provide an independent review, highlighting strengths and identifying opportunities for improvement — and the fact that 70% of facilities return for repeat assessments shows a strong culture of ongoing development.
However, only 14% participating annually is a concern. It is recommended that aquatic facilities participate in an assessment at least every two years.
Every assessment moves the industry forward. Together, these insights shape not only safer pools, but a more connected and capable industry.
Take the Next Step
Safety is not a one-time goal — it’s an ongoing journey. Royal Life Saving encourages all facility operators to:
🔹 Subscribe to the GSPO and give your team access to the latest guidance and standards.
GSPO
🔹 Book an Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment to benchmark your operations and identify clear pathways for improvement.
By learning from the data, applying the guidelines, and committing to continuous improvement, we can keep building a safer aquatic future for all Australians.
