Definition of a swimming pool? "It's a structure, often a concrete-lined excavation of rectangular shape, that is filled with water and used for swimming."

Therefore various safety regulations are to be adhered to, which are quite similar but can still differ from state to state. Before building a Natural Swimming Pool* please consult with your local council for planning/building permit requirements.

VIC:http://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/CA256EB5000644CE/page/Building+&+Renovation-Home+Owners-Swimming+Pools?OpenDocument&1=40-Building+%26+Renovation~&2=10-Home+Owners~&3=80-Swimming+Pools~

NSW: http://www.safewaters.nsw.gov.au/poolchecklist.htm

QLD: http://www.dip.qld.gov.au/poolfencing

WA: http://www.coorow.wa.gov.au/council/applications (bottom of their list)

SA: hhttp://www.planning.sa.gov.au/go/swimmingpools

NT: hhttp://www.nt.gov.au/buildingmoratorium/documents/ADiscPprRev.pdf

* Natural Swimming Pool: the mayor difference to a conventional pool is that no chlorine or chemicals are used for purification of the water.