We did it. South Australia is getting a patient, family and carer escalation protocol.

We are proud to share a major win for every patient, family member and carer in South Australia.

The South Australian Government has committed to developing a patient, family member and carer escalation protocol, modelled on Queensland’s Ryan’s Rule. This means that when families and carers raise concerns about a patient’s care, there will be a clear, formal pathway for them to be heard and to have that concern escalated.

The Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Blair Boyer, has confirmed the commitment, saying he is proud to be part of securing this important milestone. The Minister has acknowledged the Foundation’s advocacy directly, noting that our work is driven by our love for our son Ryan and that we continue to be strong advocates and leaders in this space.

In the Minister’s own words, when families and carers raise concerns, they deserve to be heard. The Government will now work closely with clinicians and people with lived experience to finalise a protocol that strengthens safety, supports clinicians and gives patients and carers greater confidence in our health system.

This is what your support made possible. Every signature added weight to the case that South Australians deserve the same protection that Queensland families have had for years. Ryan’s voice is now driving lasting change.

There is still work ahead as the protocol is finalised, and we will keep you updated at every step. For now, thank you. This is your victory too.

With gratitude, Chris and Deb Brooks

Ryan Bowman Legacy of Care Foundation