What is the standard pool size in Australia?

The standard size of a pool often depends on the size of the area where it is to be installed. A common pool area size in Australia is 18 metres squared, which would make the standard pool size 6m x 3m. In a larger pool area of 21 square metres, the standard pool size would be 7m x 4m, and in 32 SQM area the standard pool size is 8m x 4m. For an average Aussie family, the ideal pool size would be 9m (length) x 4m (width) x 1.7m (depth).

However, these dimensions will vary greatly depending on the type of the pool. There are a number of different pool categories that classify differences in shape, size, purpose, design and material. The most common types of pools are medium-sized rectangular pools, which have the above standard dimensions. Other pools such as plunge pools have their own standard dimensions relative to type; for a plunge pool, the standard size is 2m-7m long x 2m-3m wide. Depth recommendations are difficult to pin down as plunge pools are often much deeper than a standard rectangular pool (to compensate for the lack of length/width).

Freeform pools are also fairly common in Australian backyards. They can be shaped to curve around backyard or landscaping features, giving homeowners the flexibility to build the exact environment they want. A freeform pool might leave more room for a deck, garden, patio or even just more grass space. They are often not that much more expensive than a standard sized pool – freeform pools will usually cost anywhere between $15,000-$20,000, but you could likely find a simple style for around $5,000.

There are a few things to consider when debating on pool size. The first, and most obvious, is the size of your backyard. As a general rule of thumb, you want to have at least 2 square metres of backyard space per person in the household. It can be tricky to squeeze a typical rectangular pool into a backyard if there is no space leftover for decking, a garden, or grass. If it seems like the pool size you’ve chosen will take up too much of the backyard, consider downsizing to a type of pool that is designed for small backyards. Such pools include plunge pools, lap pools, spa pools, above-ground pools, freeform pools and shipping container pools.

Standard swimming pool dimensions chart by type Australia

Pool type	Medium Rectangular	Plunge	Lap	Freeform	Olympic
Standard length (in metres)	9	2-7	12.5-20	N/A	50
Standard width (m)	4	2-4	2.5	N/A	25
Standard depth (m)	1.7	1-2	1	N/A	Minimum 2

Average pool size Australia

There are a few extra metrics to think about, such as how many litres in a pool. The average 9m x 4m pool will contain about 61,200 litres. You can use a pool volume calculator to figure out how much water your pool will require in litres. Big pools such as an Olympic swimming pool can hold as many as 2.5 million litres of water.

All of these options may seem a little daunting at first. It is best to take a comprehensive look at each option before making a decision. To help you narrow down which pool type and size is best for you, here is an overview of the most common backyard swimming pool specs.

7. Above ground pool

concrete plunge pool retro outdoors rural private airbnb

Above ground pools are a quick and easy way to get a private pool without having to break the bank. You will save thousands on the excavation and installation, and most of the time you can even take them with you if you move house.

The sizes of above ground pools vary greatly, but they are usually smaller than the average rectangular pool (less than 7m x 4m). Above ground plunge pools are also quite common, such as the concrete cylindrical plunge pool pictured above. Don’t be fooled by the stigma – above ground pools can be just as durable as inground. In fact, many are made with steel frames.

6. Spa pool

above ground private spa pool in backyard with deck raised at night with lights

A spa pool is a typical heated pool with the facilities of a spa. They are usually 5-6m (length) x 2-2.5m (width). They can be either an above ground or inground pool and are popular with people who like relaxation and exercise.

5. Freeform pool

freeform curved pool architecturally designed ideas contractor edges unusual shapes fit to backyard

There are no standard sizes for freeform pools. This is because they usually have irregular shapes and corners that are fitted to the backyard landscape. Often fibreglass pools will be freeform as the material allows for design flexibility. See here for an analysis of the best poolside materials.

4. Medium rectangular pool

rectangular medium lap pool in average house steel frame

Medium rectangular pools are the most common pool type for Australian families. Typical sizes include 9m x 4m, 8m x 4m, 7m x 4m, and 6m x 3m. Depth is usually around 1.5-1.7 metres, with a deep end and a shallow end. Many people prefer rectangular pools as they provide the maximum amount of swimming space for the area (unlike freeform pools with curves).

3. Shipping container pool

below ground pool made from shipping container plunge pool cheap design ideas

Shipping container pools are among the cheapest pool ideas. They are perfect for small backyards and can be installed within a day. Standard sizes for shipping container pools vary with the type of shipping container, but the most common options are 10ft, 20ft and 40ft. Read our shipping container size guide for more.

2. Lap pool

small lap pool in backyard around corner L-shape design

Lap pools have a variety of lengths often depending on the purpose of their use. Domestic lap pools are usually around 12.5m – 20m in length, though more serious swimmers will likely have a 20m-25m pool. A lap pool is primarily used for exercise rather than recreational or social swimming, so the width is usually only the length of one swimming lane (about 2.5m)

1. Plunge pool

small backyard plunge pool deep tiny 2m x 3m swimming pool for submersion spa

Plunge pools are the smallest type of pool, though naturally there is some variation. They are characterized by their depth as opposed to length or width. A small pool like this is perfect for homes without abundant backyard space as it will still allow you to submerge and get a slight swim in here and there.

Juliet Taylor

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