South Australian Legislation

🏛️ South Australian AED Legislation Overview

Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Act 2022 & Regulations 2024

📅 Key Compliance Dates

• 1 January 2025: AEDs must be installed in all Crown-owned buildings, facilities, and emergency service vehicles.

• 1 January 2026: Requirement expands to include non-government buildings, such as commercial spaces over 600 m² of publicly accessible area, public transport vehicles, schools, aged care, sporting venues, and more.

🧱 Installation Requirements

• Buildings with 600 m² or more of publicly accessible space must have at least one AED.

• For spaces exceeding 1,200 m², an additional AED is required for every additional 1,200 m².

• Emergency service vehicles must also be equipped with an AED by the relevant deadline.

⚠️ Signage & Accessibility

• Clear AED signage must be placed:

  • Outside the building, near the main public entrance.

  • Inside, near the location of the AED.

• AEDs must be readily accessible during the building’s open hours. In staffed facilities, accessibility may be provided via staff if not directly on display.

🛠️ Maintenance & Registration

• AEDs must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. While there is no mandated schedule, at least annual checks are strongly recommended.

• All AEDs must be registered with SA Ambulance Service within 14 days of installation, including public access hours. Updates must be made if the AED is moved or access hours change.

🚔 Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Fines of up to $20,000 may apply for failure to install, maintain, or register AEDs.

• Tampering with, removing, or damaging an AED may result in penalties up to $10,000 or 12 months imprisonment.

❌ Exemptions

Exemptions apply to:

• Hospitals and medical facilities already equipped with defibrillators and qualified staff.

• Correctional facilities.

• Residential facilities for children.

• Car parks and other non-public areas.