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Equal Opportunity Act

The purpose of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) is to promote equality of opportunity for all South Australians.  It aims to prevent discrimination against people and to give them fair chance to take part in economic and community life.

Types of unlawful discrimination

Not all types of discrimination are against the law.  Under South Australia law, particular types of discrimination occurring in certain places are against the law.

In South Australia, it is unlawful to discriminate because of:

• disability - physical or intellectual
• race
• age
• sex
• sexuality
• pregnancy
• marital status.

Discrimination laws also cover:

• sexual harassment
• victimisation
• whistleblowing.

Places where discrimination is unlawful

The Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) only covers discrimination that happens in public life, not in private.  In South Australia it is unlawful to discriminate in:

• employment, including volunteers
• customer service
• accommodation
• selling land
• clubs and associations
• education
• granting qualifications
• advertising.

Loss or humiliation

Discrimination is against the law when, as a result, someone:

• feels humiliated, embarrassed, ridiculed, denigrated or segregated
• is denied access or refused services
• loses an opportunity or income.

Time limits

The Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) only covers discrimination that has occurred within the last six months.

Exemptions

Sometimes discrimination that would usually be against the law is allowed under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA).  Exemptions are specific and strict requirements apply.

For more information see Exceptions to the rules.

Related information

Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) - PDF (320kb) (opens new window)
Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) - RTF (547kb) (opens new window)
AustLII website - Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) (opens new window)
New Equal Opportunity Act?
Types of discrimination
Places of discrimination