New AED Law in South Australia: What You Need to Know (and How to Get Compliant)

Change is the only constant, they say. And boy, are they right! If you blinked, you might have missed the latest safety update. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Everywhere we look, things are constantly changing, but when it comes to safety, staying ahead of the game is well worth it. And in South Australia, there’s a new law on the horizon that could save lives.

Here’s the lowdown on the new legislation:

The South Australian Parliament has recently introduced the Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Act 2022. In a nutshell, this law requires certain public and private buildings to have Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) readily available. Why? Because AEDs can be the difference between life and death in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest.

What’s an AED? 

It’s a portable electronic device that can analyse a person’s heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock if needed to help restore a normal heartbeat. Plainly put, Automated External Defibrillators save lives.

Who needs to comply? 

The new law applies to a range of public and private buildings, including:

• High-traffic public spaces: Shopping centres, airports, train stations, stadiums, and community centres.
• Educational institutions: Schools, universities, and childcare facilities.
• Healthcare facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and aged care homes.
• Sports and recreation facilities: Gyms, fitness centres, and sporting venues.
• Workplaces: Offices, factories, and construction sites.
• Accommodation providers: Hotels, motels, and caravan parks.
• Entertainment venues: Cinemas, theatres, and concert halls.

When is the deadline to comply? 

Government agencies need to have AEDs installed by 1 January 2025. Private and other entities have a bit more time for compliance, with a deadline of 1 January 2026. Failure to comply can result in penalties of up to $20,000.

Why is this important? 

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Having an AED readily available can significantly increase the chances of survival. In fact, the Australian Red Cross says 50-70% of Sudden Cardiac Arrest victims survive if defibrillation occurs within the first 5 minutes. With AEDs, a safer community for everyone is within our reach.

Need help getting AED-compliant?

Fresh & Clean AEDs are the top choice for a reason. They’re user-friendly, with simple push-button technology and guided assistance for both trained and untrained individuals. Fresh & Clean AEDs utilise advanced technology for safe and effective shock treatment, while remaining compact, portable, and durable enough to withstand even the toughest work environments. Plus, with a built-in system status indicator, you can rest assured that your AED is always ready for use. 

More details about scope, installation, signage requirements, registration, training and penalties of the AED act are available here.

Don’t delay, get AED-ready today!

As the leading supplier of Automatic Emergency Defibrillators (AEDs), First Aid Kids, and First Aid Training in Australia, our First Aid Rental Services and Managed Training Services ensure communities and workplaces across Australia are prepared for emergencies. Contact us today to learn more about our Fresh & Clean AED solutions and how we can help your business comply with the new legislation.