More defibs available to save lives in 2025

From 1 January 2025, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)  became mandatory in relevant State Government owned buildings, facilities and emergency service vehicles, under the Automated External Defibrillator (Public Access) Act 2022. 

This includes public primary and secondary schools, the State Library and venues such as Coopers Stadium, Adelaide Entertainment Centre and Adelaide Convention Centre. 

There is also to be one installed in the Narungga Electorate Office (Fraser Ellis MP) in Graves Street in Kadina. 

Over 2,000 additional AEDs have been ordered to ensure compliance with the Australia-first legislation which aims to increase community access to AEDs 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. 

AEDs require no training and can be used by anyone who recognises the signs of a cardiac arrest.

From 1 January 2026, AEDs 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. 

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 3 February 2025 to Wednesday 30 April 2025.