Defibrillators now mandatory in public facilities in South Australia

New legislation in South Australia aims to ensure that more life-saving automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are available to deal with cardiac emergencies.

In effect from 1st January, the nation-leading legislation - the Automated External Defibrillator (Public Access) Act 2022 - makes it mandatory for AEDs to be in place in all South Australian Government owned buildings, facilities and emergency service vehicles. This includes public primary and secondary schools, the State Library and venues such as Coopers Stadium, Adelaide Entertainment Centre and Adelaide Convention Centre.

Over 2,000 additional AEDs have been ordered to ensure compliance with the legislation which aims to increase community access to defibrillator s in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest.

Signage will be installed near the AED and outside the building or facility, to ensure the community is aware the device is available. Defibrillators require no training and can be used by anyone who recognises the signs of a cardiac arrest.

When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, they may collapse, have an irregular heartbeat and stop breathing normally.

In a cardiac emergency, the first priorities are to call Triple Zero (000) and start chest compressions. The emergency call-taker will be able to provide directions to a nearby AED if one is required.

As of 1st January 2026, defibrillator s will also become mandatory in all prescribed vehicles, including trains, trams and public buses, as well as all remaining in scope buildings and facilities, such as universities, libraries, sporting facilities, community centres, theatres, swimming pools and other public buildings.

The Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Regulations 2024 provide additional clarity for owners of buildings and facilities regarding requirements for implementation, including placement and installation of AEDs, the maximum number of defibrillator s required in a building or facility, and how to calculate publicly accessible floor area.

AED pads need to be replaced after every use, with SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) offering reimbursements for non-government organisations when the defibrillator is used in the community.

Eligible not-for-profit community or sporting organisations can apply for grants of $1,000 per location to assist with the cost of purchasing an AED for their building or facility, with the next round of applications opening from Monday 3rd February to Wednesday 30th April 2025.

To be eligible, the not-for-profit organisations must be in South Australia and meet certain criteria, such as having an active Australian Business Number (ABN).