Do You Need a Defibrillator at Work in Australia?

Quick Answer

A defibrillator (AED) is not legally required in all Australian workplaces. However, under Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, employers must manage health risks — and in many workplaces, having an AED is considered best practice, especially where there is a higher risk of cardiac arrest or delayed emergency response.

Is a Defibrillator Mandatory in Australian Workplaces?

In most cases:

👉 No — AEDs are not strictly mandatory by law

However:

👉 You are legally required to manage risks to health and safety

This is where AEDs come in.

Under WHS legislation, businesses must:

• Identify potential risks
• Implement reasonable controls
• Ensure emergency preparedness

👉 In many workplaces, an AED is considered a reasonable and expected control measure.

When Is an AED Strongly Recommended?

You should strongly consider a defibrillator if your workplace has:

🏭 High-Risk Environments

• Construction sites
• Warehouses
• Manufacturing facilities
• Mining and remote work

👥 Large or Public-Facing Workplaces

• Offices with large staff numbers
• Shopping centres
• Gyms and fitness facilities
• Sports clubs

⏱ Delayed Emergency Response

• Remote locations
• Areas with long ambulance response times

👶 Presence of Children or Vulnerable People

• Schools
• Childcare centres
• Medical clinics

👉 In these environments, having an AED is often considered essential. Learn more about Using Defibrillators on a Child

Why Defibrillators Are Important in the Workplace

• Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time
• Survival decreases by ~10% for every minute without defibrillation
• AEDs allow immediate treatment before emergency services arrive

👉 Having an AED on-site can significantly improve survival outcomes.

Workplace Responsibilities (WHS Expectations)

If you choose to install an AED:

👉 You are responsible for ensuring it is:

• Accessible
• Clearly visible
• Maintained and functional
• Known to staff (location awareness)

You should also:

• Include AEDs in emergency response plans
• Assign responsibility for maintenance
• Conduct periodic checks

Do Staff Need Training to Use an AED?

No — AEDs are designed for use by untrained people.

They:

• Provide voice instructions
• Guide the user step-by-step
• Only deliver a shock if required

👉 That said, many workplaces still provide basic first aid or CPR training.

Choosing the Right AED for Your Workplace

1. Ease of Use

• Clear voice prompts
• Simple operation

2. Child Compatibility

• Visitors
• Families
• Public access

👉 Choose an AED that:

• Supports children
• Minimises steps (e.g. universal pads)

3. Visibility & Storage

• Install in a central, visible location
• Use signage
• Consider alarmed cabinets

4. Maintenance Requirements

• Regular checks required
• Pads and batteries must be in date
• Choose models with low maintenance where possible

Best AED Types for Workplaces

🟢 General Offices & Workplaces

• Simple, affordable AEDs
• Low maintenance
• Suitable for untrained users

🟡 Public Access Environments

• Highly visible
• Easy-to-use
• Child-compatible

🔵 Industrial & High-Risk Workplaces

• Durable
• Advanced features (CPR feedback)
• Longer-life components

Cost vs Risk: Is It Worth It?

AED cost:

• ~$1,400 to $3,000+

Compare that to:

• Risk to employees
• Legal exposure
• Reputational impact

👉 For most businesses, the cost is relatively low compared to the potential benefit.

FAQs

Is a defibrillator required by law in Australia?
No, but businesses must manage health and safety risks, and AEDs are often considered best practice.

Can anyone use a defibrillator at work?
Yes. AEDs are designed for use by untrained people.

Where should a workplace AED be located?
In a visible, central location with clear signage.

How many AEDs does a workplace need?
Depends on size, layout, and risk — larger sites may require multiple units.

Final Recommendation

If you’re assessing whether your workplace needs a defibrillator:

👉 Consider your risk level
👉 Consider response times
👉 Consider who is on-site

In many cases:

👉 Installing an AED is a simple, cost-effective way to improve workplace safety.

Explore Workplace Defibrillators

Looking for the right AED for your workplace?

👉 Shop Defibrillators at First Aid Kits Australia
👉 Compare Models for Workplace Use
👉 Best Defibrillators in Australia (2026 Guide)

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