Extend support to business to install AE Defibs

Member for Narungga Fraser Ellis MP is calling for financial support to assist small business adhere to new regulations that mandate the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) in publicly accessible spaces, buildings, facilities and vehicles.

Building, facilities and emergency service vehicles owned by the Crown have had to comply to the new rules from 1 January 2025, with non-crown owned buildings, facilities, vehicles and prescribed vehicles (trains, trams, and public buses) having an extra year to comply – to 1 January 2026.

Under the Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Act 2022, facilities such as caravan parks are explicitly listed in section 4 as a designated facility requiring an AED, and to purchase such devices can range up to $2,500.  

Preventive Health SA provided grant funding of $1,000 to assist eligible not-for-profit community and sporting organisations with the purchase and installation of an AED, but private businesses such as caravan parks, hotels, and shop fronts have been left to foot the bill themselves.

“I have sought exemptions for businesses that are located in streets that already have multiple defibrillators installed nearby but with no luck and have also sought clarification of options and cost to businesses to purchase, install and maintain these mandatory devices with the view to seeking government financial support for their installation”, Mr Ellis said.

“I am advised a Therapeutic Goods Administration-approved, multiple use AED typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the model and optional features, and that additionally under the Act, it is the business owner’s responsibility to maintain the device in accordance with manufacturer instructions which comes at additional cost.

“Whilst I agree with the intent of the Act -- that is, to ensure AEDs are readily available to saves lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest -- small business is struggling at present with ever rising costs.

“I believe they are deserving of a similar Grants program to the SA Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Grants Program offered to local clubs and community groups and I intend to continue to advocate for this assistance”, Mr Ellis said.