Lobbyist Code of Conduct and Register

Who Needs to Register?

Lobbyists who act on behalf of a third party client and who wish to lobby government representatives in this state must be registered on the South Australian Lobbyist Register.

This registration must occur before the lobbyist contacts a government representative for the purpose of conducting lobbying activities.

The following persons must register.

Individuals undertaking lobbying

If you are an individual undertaking lobbying activities for a third party you must register and provide the required statutory declaration.

Companies and organisations undertaking lobbying

If you are the principal of a company or organisation undertaking lobbying activities you must register on behalf of yourself, the company or organisation and any relevant employees or associates who will come into contact with South Australian Government representatives.

For more information on the registration process and to access the necessary forms please go to the How to Register page.

Exemptions from the Registration Requirements

The full provisions of the Lobbyist Code of Conduct do not apply in certain situations.

Which organisations and persons are exempt?

Under the Code, the term 'lobbyist' does not include:

  • persons, companies or organisations lobbying on their own behalf rather than for a client
  • religious or charitable organisations
  • non-profit organisations that represent the interests of their members
  • members of trade delegations
  • organisations constituted to represent the interests of their members (for example, professional organisations, peak industry bodies and trade unions)
  • professionals (such as doctors, lawyers or accountants) who as part of their day to day professional services to a client, represent that client’s views to government provided this is incidental to the provision of their professional services and not a regular part of the services offered
  • individuals making representations to government on behalf of their relatives or friends about their personal affairs.

The Code does not restrict contact in circumstances where the law requires a government representative to take account of a person’s views and that person is a lobbyist.

You should check the South Australian Government Lobbyist Code of Conduct (PDF - 45KB) for further details.

What lobbying activities are exempt?

The term 'lobbying activities' has a wide definition. It means any communications with a government representative in an effort to influence government decision-making. However there are certain specific exceptions from the above general rules:

  • Communications with a committee of the Parliament.
  • Communications with a Minister or Parliamentary Secretary in his or her capacity as a local Member in relation to non-ministerial responsibilities.
  • Communications in response to a call for submissions.
  • Petitions or communications of a community campaign nature in an attempt to influence a government policy or decision.
  • Communications in response to a request for tender.
  • Statements made in a public forum.
  • Responses to requests by government representatives for information.

Keeping Details Up-to-Date

A lobbyist is required to submit updated lobbyist's details to the Chief Executive, Department of the Premier and Cabinet, in the event of any change to the lobbyist's details as soon as practicable, but no later than 10 business days after the change. For more information on how to update your current registration please go to the How to Register page.