Families of people who make a final gift by donating tissue or organs to others will be free to share their loved one’s generosity more openly, thanks to legislative changes proposed by the Malinauskas Labor Government.

South Australians are being asked for feedback on proposed changes to the Transplantation and Anatomy Act 1983.

The proposed changes will ensure the Act is contemporary and provides legal clarity for families to ensure they can speak publicly without fear of breaching legislation, especially to remember and commemorate their loved one.

Some families currently consider they may be at risk of prosecution for publicly sharing information about their deceased family member’s donation or transplant.

This is particularly important for families wanting to raise community awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation.

The proposed changes aim to address this concern whilst protecting the right of donors, transplant recipients and their families to remain anonymous.

Feedback on the proposed changes will inform the Draft Bill. To read the draft documents and provide feedback, visit https://yoursay.sa.gov.au/donor-stories

If you would like more information about organ and tissue donation, please visit DonateLife .

For donor family support, please contact DonateLife South Australia

Quotes

Attributable to Chris Picton

There could be no greater gift to others than a renewed chance of life.

Removing the red tape on the Transplantation and Anatomy Act 1983 is a sensible, compassionate shift which gives peace of mind to loved ones.

We know one of the greatest ways to encourage people to donate organs is to hear about other people’s experiences.

I hope South Australians find out more about this important proposed change.

Attributable to Department for Health and Wellbeing Public Health Planning and Response Executive Director, Elena Anear

This legislation is a compassionate change to make sure if a person makes the generous act of donating tissue or organs, that incredible story can be shared proudly with love – not fear.

Whether you are sitting at home or scrolling your phone, take a minute to read what’s proposed, complete our short survey or email a submission.