Congratulations on making one of the best decisions you'll ever make for your family!
You’re about to transform your backyard into the place where your kids create their most treasured childhood memories. Where weekend barbecues evolve into spontaneous pool parties. Where those glorious Australian summer days become something the whole family genuinely looks forward to.
Picture this…
Saturday morning rolls around, and instead of debating which beach to visit, you’re sipping your coffee while watching the kids already making a splash in your own backyard oasis.
You’ve probably been thinking about this for months, maybe even years. Either way, you’re here because you’re ready to make it happen.
While your pool contractor will give you a comprehensive quote covering installation, there are additional investments worth planning for that make your pool ownership experience absolutely seamless from day one.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a crystal-clear picture of your complete pool investment. Plus, insider budgeting strategies that ensure your pool brings nothing but joy.
Meet Your Pool Financing Specialists
Fido Finance are Australia’s trusted pool loan experts, helping Aussie families transform their backyard dreams into splashing reality.
We work with over 30 trusted lenders to find you the perfect pool loan solution, then handle all the paperwork so you can focus on planning your family’s new favourite hangout spot.
Get started by calling our friendly team on 13 FIDOÂ (13 34 36) for an obligation-free chat about turning your pool plans into reality.
Table of contents
Initial investment
Let’s talk numbers.
The last thing you want is to fall in love with a pool design only to discover there are costs you didn’t see coming. Smart pool planning means understanding every element of your investment upfront.
The good news? Once you know what you’re looking at, the numbers become much more manageable. And honestly? Most families are pleasantly surprised to discover that the pool they want fits more comfortably into their budget than they initially thought.
Want all these pool cost breakdowns in one handy reference? Download our free Pool Cost Guide to keep track of every expense as you plan your new backyard.
Pool shell and installation costs
The actual pool structure and getting it properly installed in your backyard is your foundation investment.
For most Australian families, you’re looking at these general ranges:
- Basic fibreglass pools: $25,000 – $45,000
These are functional pools that deliver everything you need for years of family enjoyment. Perfect size for kids to learn swimming, adults to do laps, and everyone to cool off during those scorching summer days. - Mid-range concrete pools: $45,000 – $75,000
More customisation options, larger sizes, and the flexibility to create exactly the shape and depth your family needs. This is where you start seeing design elements that make your backyard feel like a sanctuary. - Premium custom installations: $75,000 – $150,000+
Think infinity edges, unique shapes, integrated spas, and stunning architectural features that make your neighbours secretly jealous. These are the pools that become the centerpiece of your entire outdoor living space.
Your installation quote typically includes excavation, plumbing, electrical work, and basic filtration systems. Reputable contractors will give you a comprehensive breakdown so there are no surprises during construction.
Customisation & features
Here’s where you get to decide exactly how spectacular you want your backyard transformation to be.
- Pool heating systems: $3,000 – $8,000
Because why should summer be the only season you enjoy your pool? Heat pumps, gas heaters, or solar heating systems mean year-round swimming comfort. Imagine those gorgeous July days when the sun’s shining but the water’s a bit nippy. With heating, you’re diving in while your neighbours are still waiting for ‘warmer weather’. - Water features: $2,000 – $15,000
Waterfalls, fountains, or bubbler jets that turn your pool into a tranquil escape as the sound of flowing water transforms your entire backyard atmosphere. - Integrated spa or hot tub: $8,000 – $25,000
Perfect for cooler months, romantic evenings, or when you need some therapeutic relaxation after a long week. Many families find this becomes their favourite place for gatherings and well-deserved wind-down sessions. - Lighting systems: $1,500 – $5,000
LED pool lights that can change colours, underwater accent lighting, or landscape lighting that showcases your new oasis after dark. Evening pool parties take on a whole new level of sophistication when your backyard looks like something from a luxury hotel. - Automatic pool covers: $8,000 – $15,000
Safety, convenience, and energy efficiency all rolled into one. Plus, they dramatically reduce your maintenance time and chemical costs.
Landscaping costs
Your new pool deserves an equally stunning frame.
- Basic landscaping and garden beds: $3,000 – $8,000
Simple plantings, mulched garden areas, and basic lawn restoration around your pool area. This gives you that “finished” look without breaking the budget. - Comprehensive landscape design: $10,000 – $25,000
Think entertaining areas with built-in seating, stylish pergolas, outdoor dining spaces, and sophisticated plant selections that create genuine resort vibes in your own backyard. - Premium outdoor living integration: $25,000 – $50,000+
Full outdoor kitchens with all the bells and whistles, fire pits, extensive decking or paving, and professional landscape architecture that turns your entire backyard into a seamless indoor-outdoor living space.
Many families phase their landscaping. They get the pool installed first, enjoy it for a season, then gradually add the landscaping elements as budget allows.
Included installation services
Quality pool contractors include several services in their base quote, but it’s worth confirming exactly what’s covered:
Typically included:
- Site excavation and preparation
- Pool shell installation or concrete work
- Basic plumbing and electrical connections
- Standard filtration system
- Basic edging and surrounds
- Council permit applications
- Basic tiling or interior finishes
Often additional costs:
- Premium tile selections
- Extensive paving or decking
- Electrical upgrades to your home
- Soil removal (if your property has access challenges)
- Landscaping restoration
- Fencing compliance upgrades
Budget optimisation tips
Here’s an insider secret.
Plan for a 15-20% buffer in your budget.
Not because contractors are trying to surprise you with extra costs, but because pool installation often reveals opportunities you hadn’t considered. Maybe your soil conditions are perfect for a slightly larger pool. Maybe you discover the perfect spot for that spa you weren’t sure about. Or maybe you decide that while the excavator is already there, adding that retaining wall makes perfect sense.
That buffer also covers those delightful “while we’re here” moments. Like upgrading to the premium tile you fell in love with. Or adding the lighting system that will make your evening swims absolutely magical. And if you end up not needing the full buffer? Perfect. You can invest in that pergola you’ve been eyeing, or those gorgeous poolside lounge chairs that complete your backyard sanctuary.
Smart budgeting strategies:
- Get quotes from 3-4 reputable contractors
- Ask for detailed breakdowns of every element
- Understand what’s included vs. additional
- Factor in financing costs if you’re using a pool loan
- Consider phasing premium features over 1-2 years
- Always include that 15-20% buffer for peace of mind
Planning your pool budget? Get our complete Pool Cost Guide (includes all the ranges mentioned above plus space for your own quotes) today.
Monthly maintenance expenses
The ongoing costs of owning a pool are surprisingly manageable. Especially when you consider that your family’s new favourite hangout spot is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Think about it this way. A single family trip to a spot with a nice pool can easily cost what you’ll spend on an entire year of pool maintenance. Except your pool never requires packing, never has crowds, and never charges you extra for that third poolside drink.
Utility bills and chemical costs
Let’s break down what you’re actually looking at each month.
- Electricity costs: $80 – $150 per month (during peak season)
Your pool pump and filtration system will typically run 6-8 hours daily during summer months. If you’ve added heating, expect an additional $100-200 monthly during the months you’re using it. Many families find that investing in energy-efficient pumps and solar heating systems dramatically reduces these costs within the first year. - Water costs: $30 – $60 per month
Mostly for topping up due to evaporation and backwashing your filter. During those scorching Australian summers, you’ll lose more to evaporation, but a pool cover can cut this cost in half while also keeping your pool cleaner. - Chemical maintenance: $50 – $100 per month
Chlorine, pH balancers, algaecide, and shock treatments to keep your water crystal clear and perfectly balanced. Remember that consistent weekly maintenance costs a lot less than trying to fix problems after they develop. - Professional cleaning service: $120 – $200 per month (optional)
Some families love the ritual of maintaining their own pool. Others prefer to invest in professional service and spend their weekends actually enjoying the pool instead of cleaning it.
Equipment servicing and repairs
Your pool equipment is built to last, but like any hardworking system, it benefits from regular attention.
- Annual professional servicing: $300 – $500 per year
A yearly check-up of your pump, filter, and heating systems keeps everything running efficiently and catches small issues before they become expensive problems. - Filter replacements: $100 – $300 per year
Depending on your filter type, you’ll need periodic replacements or professional cleaning. Cartridge filters need replacing every 12-18 months, while sand filters need fresh sand every 5-7 years. - Minor repairs and part replacements: $200 – $500 per year
Pool lights, pump seals, or automatic cleaner parts occasionally need attention. Most pool owners find these costs are minimal when they stay on top of regular maintenance.
Potential resurfacing in the long run
Here’s what smart pool owners plan for down the road.
- Fibreglass pool maintenance: Minimal for 15-20 years
One of the advantages of fibreglass pools is their durability. Most require nothing more than regular cleaning and chemical balancing for decades. When resurfacing is eventually needed, you’re typically looking at $8,000 – $15,000. - Concrete pool resurfacing: Every 10-15 years
Concrete pools may need resurfacing sooner, typically running $10,000 – $20,000 depending on the size and finish you choose. Many families use this as an opportunity to update their pool’s look with modern finishes or colours. - Tile and coping updates: As desired
Some families love refreshing their pool’s appearance every 10-15 years with updated tile work or edging stones. This is more about style preference than necessity, typically costing $5,000 – $15,000.
These are long-term investments you can see coming years in advance and plan for accordingly.
Insurance considerations
Adding a pool to your property requires updating your home insurance, but the costs are typically much lower than people expect.
- Home insurance premium increase: $200 – $600 per year
Most insurers add a pool endorsement to your existing policy rather than requiring entirely new coverage. The exact cost depends on your pool’s value, your current coverage levels, and any safety features like fencing or covers. - Liability coverage recommendations: Already included in most policies
Your existing home insurance liability coverage typically extends to your pool area. However, many families choose to increase their liability limits or add an umbrella policy for extra peace of mind when hosting pool parties. - Safety equipment requirements: $1,000 – $3,000 one-time cost
Australian pool safety regulations require proper fencing, gates, and sometimes pool covers or alarms. Most of these costs are factored into your initial installation, but it’s worth confirming with your contractor and insurance provider.
Want to factor these ongoing costs into your loan planning? Download our free Pool Cost Guide. It includes initial costs, monthly expenses, and financing tips all in one place.
Property tax implications
Here’s the financial upside that makes pool ownership even smarter.
- Property value increase: Typically adds 5-15% to your home’s total value
A quality pool installation significantly boosts your home’s market appeal and worth. Most Australian properties see substantial value gains that far exceed the associated costs. - What about rates increases? Yes, your council rates will increase by approximately $500-$1,500 annually due to the higher assessed value. But when you consider that your property has gained significantly more in market value, plus the money you’ll save on family entertainment and weekend activities, the math works strongly in your favour.
- Potential tax benefits: Worth exploring with your accountant
If your property generates rental income or you operate a business from home, there may be depreciation benefits available.
Ready to dive in?
You’ve done the research. You understand the investment. You know exactly what you’re getting into.
Now it’s time to get your finances sorted so you can start creating the memories that matter most.
The smartest pool owners plan ahead, budget comprehensively, and work with financing specialists who understand their vision. That’s where Fido Finance comes in.
We’ll work out the most suitable loan solution for your budget, needs and repayment preferences, covering everything from excavation to safety fencing. One simple loan, one manageable payment, and your family’s new favourite place becomes reality.
Ready to turn your backyard dreams into splashing reality? Contact Fido Finance today on 13 FIDO (that’s 13 34 36), or fill out our online form to find your personalised pool loan solution.
