Adult Safeguarding Unit: Draft Code of Practice

New legislation was passed in South Australia in 2018, which establishes the Adult Safeguarding Unit (ASU) with a focus on preventing and responding to abuse of vulnerable adults in South Australia.

The ASU complements the role of other government bodies. It 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.

Once operational, anyone who suspects that an adult is at risk of abuse will be able to report their concerns to the ASU.  Where a call meets the remit of the ASU, the Unit will have responsibility and accountability for assessing and responding to reports of current actual or suspected abuse of adults.  Responses could include an investigation (information gathering), a referral to more appropriate organisations, or no further action (if appropriate).

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