Equal Opportunity SA is an independent statutory body that supports the Commissioner for Equal Opportunity.

We are responsible for:

  • promoting equality of opportunity between citizens of South Australia.
  • preventing certain kinds of discrimination based on sex, race, disability, age or various other grounds.
  • facilitating the participation of citizens in the economic and social life of the community.

Our legislative responsibilities

Under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 we can:

  • help people resolve discrimination, sexual harassment or victimisation complaints
  • educate and inform the community of their rights and responsibilities under equal opportunity laws
  • undertake independent reviews of workplace culture in South Australian organisations and businesses
  • consult on culture change projects for South Australian organisations and businesses
  • partner with academic institutions to undertake research in equal opportunity and related areas
  • advise government on legislative and policy reforms relating to equal opportunity.

However, we cannot:

  • impose financial penalties on individuals or businesses for any unlawful discrimination, sexual harassment, or victimisation
  • lay criminal charges on any individual due to unlawful discrimination, sexual harassment, or victimisation
  • prosecute individuals in a court or tribunal
  • suspend or remove any licences that are approved by other government departments such as a trade licence
  • compel individuals or businesses to undergo equal opportunity-based training
  • compel individuals or businesses to implement a policy or procedure change
  • side with one party over another in our assessments or conciliatory efforts.

Learn more about the history of equal opportunity in South Australia.