What the Australian AED Bill 2022 means for your business or venue
On September 7th, 2022, a crucial bill was presented to enforce the mandatory installation and registration of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in certain buildings and facilities, along with other provisions. The bill has been subsequently passed in both houses in early 2023.
As per the new regulation, it is mandatory to have AEDs accessible in designated buildings or facilities by January 1st, 2025. The objective of the bill is to ensure that people have quick access to AEDs during cardiac emergencies, thereby improving victims’ chances of survival.
The importance of quick access to a defibrillator cannot be overstated... - MP Frank Pangallo
The bill, which was introduced by SA-BEST upper house MP Frank Pangallo, received support from the state Labor government. According to Mr. Pangallo, the importance of quick access to a defibrillator cannot be overstated, as it can significantly enhance the chances of surviving a heart attack. He emphasised that the efficacy of defibrillation in reviving the heart is crucial, and any delay in the process could have dire consequences. He added that for every minute of delay in defibrillation, the chances of survival decrease by 10%.
The following buildings or facilities are considered designated buildings or facilities under this Act, regardless of whether they were constructed before or after the relevant day: public buildings or facilities, prescribed sporting facilities, schools, tertiary institutions, and education facilities providing skills training, correctional institutions or custodial police stations, retirement villages, facilities that provide residential care under the Aged Care Act 1997 of the Commonwealth, caravan parks, residential parks that are occupied or allow for occupation by more than 12 residents under the Residential Parks Act 2007, casinos or other authorised gambling venues (excluding those that only allow the buying and selling of lottery tickets), theatres or other venues for artistic or cultural performances, and buildings or facilities, or a class thereof, that may be prescribed by the regulations. Buildings with a floor area exceeding 600 square meters are also included.
The above places are designated to ensure the availability of AEDs in crucial locations, with the aim of improving survival rates during cardiac emergencies. There’s a maximum penalty of $20,000 if an establishment fails to install a defibrillator onsite by January 1st 2025.
To ensure your business is prepared for the deadline, order your defibrillator today. If you’re in need of advice regarding which type of defibrillator is best suited to your facility, don’t hesitate to contact us to speak to a member of our team.