Automatic suppression orders for alleged sex offenders will be dropped under new legislation to be introduced to the South Australian parliament.
Attorney-General Vickie Chapman wants to do away with provisions in the Evidence Act which automatically prevent media identifying anyone charged with a sex offence when they first appear in court.
Under current provisions, alleged offenders can only be named once they plead guilty, are found guilty or are committed for trial in a higher court.
"We believe that, in the vast majority of cases, the public has the right to know the identity of someone who has been charged with an offence of this nature," Ms Chapman said.
"No other offence allows for an automatic suppression order and our reforms seek to address that imbalance."
Ms Chapman said the changes would bring SA into line with most other states and courts would still be free to impose suppression orders in individual cases if they were deemed necessary.
Australian Associated Press
