The abuse of anyone is unacceptable and cannot be justified. The Adult Safeguarding Unit provides the community with an approachable, empowered body with responsibility and accountability for receiving and responding to reports of actual or suspected abuse of adults at risk of harm.
The South Australian Parliament passed amendments to the Ageing and Adult Safeguarding Act 1995 that commence operation on 1 July 2026. The new laws support the Unit to provide tailored, flexible and appropriate responses for adults who may be vulnerable and are experiencing abuse.
To support the new laws, the Adult Safeguarding Unit Code of Practice and Adult Safeguarding Charter of Rights and Freedoms (previously called the Charter of Rights and Freedoms of Vulnerable Adults) are being updated.
A consultation period to seek community feedback and views on the proposed updates will run from 5 January 2026 – 15 February 2026.
We want to hear from:
- older adults
- adults with disability
- those with lived experience
- carers, families, supporters and advocates
- service providers and
- interested members of the community.
Head to www.yoursay.sa.gov.au/adult-safeguarding-unit-draft-code-and-charter to read the draft updated Code and Charter and to provide your feedback.
If you have any questions or require support to participate in the feedback process, please contact Office for Ageing Well by phoning 08 8204 2420.