Trampoline Safety Standards in Australia (AS 4989): Family Buying Guide
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:20 September 2026
Understanding Trampoline Safety Standards in Australia (AS 4989)
Buying a new trampoline in Australia is exciting, especially as the weather warms up and kids start begging to bounce again. But before we bring one home, it helps to know how to keep the fun going without ending up in the emergency room. That is where Australian Standard AS 4989 comes in.
This standard was created to cut down on serious injuries from falls, getting stuck in gaps, or hitting hard frames and springs. In this guide, we will break AS 4989 into simple, parent-friendly points and show what to look for before you buy. We will also talk about different trampoline styles for Australian backyards and how to keep everything safe once it is set up.
What AS 4989 Means for Your Family
AS 4989 is a safety standard for trampolines in Australia. It sets out how a trampoline should be built, tested and labelled so kids have a safer space to jump. The wording in the standard is quite technical, so let us put it in plain language.
AS 4989 focuses on things like:
- Structural strength so the frame does not twist or collapse under normal use
- Safe enclosure design so kids are kept away from edges and springs
- Padding so there are no exposed metal parts where a child could land
- Impact testing to check how the trampoline handles falls
- Clear safety information that comes with the trampoline
It is also important to know that standards are not laws by default. A trampoline can be sold here without officially meeting AS 4989, but many trusted sellers choose to follow it, and big retailers often expect it. The whole aim is to reduce head and neck injuries, stop kids falling off the side and get rid of pinch points, sharp edges and gaps where little arms and legs could get caught.
How to Spot a Safer Trampoline in Australia
When we are shopping online or in store, the first thing to look for is a clear mention of AS 4989. It might be on the box, in the manual, or on the product page. Some brands also share test reports or say that the trampoline has been tested to the standard.
Helpful signs on product information include:
- A note that the design meets or is tested to AS 4989
- Clear maximum user weight and age guidelines
- Safety warnings that are easy to read and understand
Then there are the design clues we can see at a glance. Safer trampolines usually have:
- Full-length padding that covers all springs and frame edges
- An enclosure net that sits on the inside of the springs, not the outside
- A strong, rust-resistant frame, which matters a lot in Australian weather
When we are scrolling through lots of listings for a trampoline in Australia, we also want to watch for red flags:
- Vague claims like “super safe” with no mention of how
- Missing details about frame material, padding or net design
- No reference at all to Australian standards
- Very high weight limits that seem unrealistic for the size
If the safety information is hard to find or very unclear, that is usually a sign to keep looking.
Safety Features That Really Matter
Not every safety feature is equal. Some things actually change how likely it is that kids will get hurt, so they are worth paying close attention to.
First is the enclosure. A safer net usually:
- Curves slightly inwards so it guides jumpers back to the centre
- Uses a fine mesh so fingers and toes do not get caught
- Has a self-closing zip or overlapping entrance so there is no open gap
The way the net connects to the trampoline also matters. Strong poles, secure caps and firm attachments help the net stay upright when a child bumps into it.
Next is padding and the jumping mat:
- Thick, soft padding that fully covers springs and the outer frame
- Padding made from UV-stable material, since Australian sun is harsh
- A quality mat surface with strong stitching and UV resistance
If the padding is thin, patchy or already cracked in photos, it will only get worse once it sits in the yard.
Frame strength is another big one. Families should look for frames made from strong steel with good welds and a protective coating to help against rust, especially in coastal or damp areas. Anchor kits are also helpful. In high winds, an unanchored trampoline can move or tip, so securing it to the ground is an important step in overall safety.
Choosing Trampoline Types for Aussie Backyards
Not every backyard suits the same type of trampoline. The shape, size and setup all affect how safe it feels day to day.
Round trampolines are common in Australian backyards. Their bounce naturally pulls jumpers back toward the centre, which can be helpful for younger kids. Rectangular trampolines tend to give a more even, stronger bounce across the mat. That can suit older kids or more confident jumpers, but it can also mean bigger landings if things go wrong.
A quick way to think about it:
- Round: good for family play, simple bouncing and shared use
- Rectangular: better for skilled users, training, or those who want more height
In-ground trampolines sit down in a pit so the mat is closer to ground level. The lower fall height and tidy look can be appealing, but they must be installed properly. Good ventilation under the mat and proper drainage are important so the pit does not fill with water or affect the bounce. The same ideas that sit behind AS 4989 still apply, like safe edges, padding and clear zones around the trampoline.
Speaking of space, it helps to step out the backyard before we choose. Make sure:
- There is clear room around the trampoline, not squeezed against a fence
- Overhanging branches, pergolas or clotheslines are well away from the jumping area
- The ground surface is flat and stable, not on a steep slope
Hard surfaces like concrete right beside the trampoline are not ideal. A soft fall area, open lawn or garden bed around the outside gives a kinder landing if someone does manage to tumble out.
Keeping Springtime Jumping Safe
Choosing a trampoline built to the ideas in AS 4989 is a strong first step, but safety does not stop once it arrives in the backyard. Family rules, active supervision and a simple check-up now and then keep everyone safer as the seasons go by.
At the start of spring and again through summer, it helps to walk around the trampoline and check:
- Nets and mats for tears, sagging or loose stitching
- Bolts, screws and frame joints for movement
- Padding for cracks, sun damage or missing sections
- Ladder and anchors for stability and proper fit
Simple rules like one jumper at a time, no flips without proper training and always closing the entry zip make a big difference too.
By using AS 4989 as a reference, comparing safety features side by side and setting clear family rules, households can make more informed choices about trampolines in Australia and keep backyard jumping as safe as possible.
Bring Safer Backyard Fun Home Today
If you are ready to give the kids a safe, long-lasting play space, explore our range and find the right trampoline in Australia for your backyard. At Jump Star Trampolines, we focus on quality, safety and value so you can feel confident every time they head outside for a bounce. If you would like personalised help choosing the best size or model, simply contact us and our friendly team will guide you.
