Legal Issues in First Aid

Table of Contents
Duty of CareConsentPrivacyOwn LimitationsGood Samaritan PrinciplesStress and Self-Care

Duty of Care

A first aider may have a duty to act because of their role, workplace procedure or because they have started assisting. Provide care that is reasonable for your training, the situation and the resources available.

Ask permission before helping a conscious casualty. Explain what you plan to do in simple language and respect refusal unless the situation changes.

If the casualty is unconscious or unable to respond, consent is generally implied for urgent first aid.

Privacy

Treat casualty information as private. Share details only with emergency services, workplace supervisors or healthcare staff who need the information for care or reporting.

Own Limitations

First aiders should:

  • Work within their training and workplace procedures
  • Call 000 early when the problem is serious or uncertain
  • Avoid attempting procedures they are not trained or equipped to perform
  • Continue care until help arrives, it becomes unsafe, or another suitable person takes over

Good Samaritan Principles

Australian jurisdictions generally recognise people who provide emergency help in good faith. This does not remove the need to act carefully, avoid reckless behaviour and follow current training.

Stress and Self-Care

First aid incidents can be confronting. After an incident, use workplace reporting, debriefing, peer support or professional help if needed.

Last updated: 11/07/2026