02/09/2025
South Australia Enacts Landmark AED Legislation to Enhance Public Safety
South Australia has implemented the Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Act 2022, a pioneering law mandating the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across various public and private settings. This initiative aims to improve survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest by ensuring immediate access to life-saving devices.
Mandatory AED Installation: A Comprehensive Overview
Under the new legislation, AEDs are required in several key areas:
Public Buildings and Facilities: This includes schools, universities, libraries, sporting facilities, theatres, swimming pools, local council offices, correctional institutions, and police custody facilities.
Private and Commercial Properties: AEDs must be installed in shopping centres, aged care facilities, retirement villages, and commercial properties exceeding 600 square metres.
Residential Complexes: Certain apartment buildings and residential parks are also mandated to have AEDs on-site.
Entertainment and Gambling Venues: Casinos and venues authorized for gambling activities fall under this requirement.
Public Transportation: Trains, trams, and public buses are classified as prescribed vehicles and must be equipped with AEDs.
New Commercial Constructions: Any new commercial building over 600m² or major renovations commencing from January 1, 2026, are obligated to include AED installations.
Compliance Deadlines and Requirements
The Act stipulates that all applicable entities must comply by January 1, 2026. Key compliance measures include:
Installation Ratios: At least one AED per 1,200m² is required (e.g., 1 AED for 600m²-1,200m², 2 AEDs for 1,200m²-2,400m²).
Maintenance Protocols: AEDs must undergo proper maintenance and testing at least once every 12 months to ensure functionality.
Registration: All AEDs must be registered on the South Australian AED Register.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to adhere to these requirements may result in fines of up to $20,000 AUD.
Significance of the Legislation
Sudden cardiac arrest affects over 30,000 Australians annually, with a survival rate of only 10%. Research indicates that public access to AEDs can significantly improve these outcomes, potentially saving at least two lives per week. South Australia’s legislation aligns with successful models in other regions, such as Victoria’s rollout of 1,500 AEDs to community organizations and Singapore’s mandate for AEDs in all taxis.
Frank Pangallo, who championed the legislation since 2019, highlighted its critical importance, stating, “The statistics paint a very disturbing, very deadly picture. This legislation will save lives.”
Statewide AED Register and Mobile Application
The Act mandates that the Minister for Health and Wellbeing establish a comprehensive AED register. This publicly accessible database will provide real-time information on AED locations and availability via a mobile application, facilitating swift access during emergencies.
lawhandbook.sa.gov.au
Implications for Businesses and Institutions
Owners and operators of commercial, residential, or public facilities should begin preparations to ensure compliance by the January 1, 2026 deadline. This includes budgeting for AED installations, establishing maintenance schedules, and completing the necessary registration processes.
For detailed compliance guidelines and updates, please visit the SA Health website.
sahealth.sa.gov.au
