South Australia’s New Defibrillator Laws: What You Need to Know for 2025–2026 Compliance
Why South Australia’s AED Laws Are Critical for Public Safety
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) claims over 30,000 lives annually in Australia, making rapid intervention crucial. Immediate CPR and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use can boost survival rates by up to 74% when administered promptly.
In response, South Australia has enacted the Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Act 2022. This groundbreaking legislation ensures essential access to AEDs, significantly enhancing community safety.
Understanding the South Australian AED Legislation Requirements
The new law mandates specific public and commercial properties in South Australia to install AEDs by clearly defined deadlines.
Which Facilities Must Install AEDs?
Mandatory AED installation applies from:
- 1 January 2025 (Crown-owned properties)
- 1 January 2026 (Non-Crown entities)
Facilities required to comply include:
- Commercial offices ≥600m²
- Shopping centres
- Residential apartment complexes
- Aged care & retirement villages
- Educational institutions (schools, childcare centres, TAFEs, universities)
- Swimming and recreational centres
- Theatres, gaming venues & casinos
- Correctional institutions & custodial police facilities
- Public transport vehicles (trains, trams, buses)
- Residential parks & caravan parks
- New commercial constructions post-2026
Installation Rule: One AED per every 1,200m². For example, a facility measuring 2,400m² must install two AEDs.
Important Compliance Dates & Penalties
| Requirement | Deadline |
|---|---|
| AED Installation (Crown) | 1 Jan 2025 |
| AED Installation (Non-Crown) | 1 Jan 2026 |
| AED Testing & Maintenance | Annually (minimum) |
| AED Registration | SA AED Register |
⚠️ Penalty for Non-Compliance: Fines up to $20,000 AUD
Liability and Good Samaritan Protection in South Australia
Organisations often worry about liability with publicly accessible AEDs. Fortunately, South Australia’s Civil Liability Act 1936 provides robust Good Samaritan protection, ensuring individuals acting in good faith during medical emergencies are shielded from civil liability—even if outcomes are unfavourable.
How to Ensure Compliance with the New AED Law
To maintain compliance and safeguard your community, organisations must:
- ✅ Install AEDs according to square metre specifications.
- 🛠 Conduct regular annual maintenance (we recommend our concierge services ).
- 📍 Install clear AED signage meeting international standards.
- 📝 Register AEDs with South Australia’s official AED Register.
Expert Assistance for AED Implementation and Compliance
AED Authority provides comprehensive services, including site assessments, AED installation, signage, registration, and concierge maintenance programs, making compliance easy and efficient.
Call AED Authority: 1300 233 123
Contact Us Today to get started.
