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Defamation Lawyers Adelaide

Q: What is considered slander in Australia?

Slander refers to spoken defamation, being false verbal statements that cause reputational harm. Like libel, slander is actionable if it can be proven to have been published (heard by someone else) and caused harm.

Q: Are social media posts considered defamation?

Yes. Social media content, such as Facebook posts, tweets, or comments, can be considered defamatory if it meets the legal criteria. Even sharing or reposting defamatory content can potentially expose you to liability.

Protect Your Reputation with Trusted Legal Advice

At Randle & Taylor, our experienced defamation lawyers in Adelaide help individuals and businesses protect their reputations and respond to defamatory statements. Whether you’ve been the target of damaging comments or accused of defamation yourself, we can provide clear legal guidance and strong representation.

Serving Adelaide Since 1970

50+ Years Experience

Free 15 Minute Phone Consult

Trusted Adelaide Lawyers

What We Do

Our Defamation Law Services

Randle & Taylor Barristers and Solicitors offer personal, practical and strong representation. Our defamation solicitors can assist you with:

Defamation Advice

Legal advice for individuals and businesses defamed online, in print or in conversation.

Pre-litigation Action

Cease and desist letters, negotiations and retractions.

Court Representation

Representing clients in defamation proceedings in South Australian courts.

Risk & Defences

Advice on defamation risks, defences and public interest matters.

Reputation Management

Reputation management and media law guidance.

Online Defamation

Social media and online defamation response strategies.

If you believe you've been defamed, or if someone claims you've defamed them, it's important to get advice from a qualified defamation lawyer as soon as possible.

Request a Callback from a Defamation Lawyer

No obligation. Confidential. Adelaide based.

For When Experience Counts

Expert Prosecution or Defence of a Defamation Claim

A leading Adelaide law firm

Randle & Taylor Barristers and Solicitors are a leading commercial law firm based in Adelaide. We have proudly served South Australia since 1970 and pride ourselves on a strong, practical approach to solving a range of legal issues.

We understand reputational harm

With over 50 years of legal experience in South Australia, we understand how reputational harm can impact your life, career or business. We know how to act quickly and strategically.

Act quickly

Defamation matters are time-sensitive, and strict limitation periods apply in South Australia. We move promptly and strategically to protect your position, whether you are pursuing a claim or defending one.

Our Fees Are Competitive with Other Firms in South Australia

Contact one of our defamation specialists today for your free 15 minute telephone consultation, with no obligation.

Why Choose Us?

Randle & Taylor’s expertise and experience allows us to offer you the following:

Fixed fees for certain services.
No win no fee (conditions apply).
Payment of our fees on the completion of your matter (conditions apply).
Urgent advice (conditions apply).
An initial 15 minute telephone consultation is free with no obligation.

Meet Your Legal Team

The Lawyers Who Handle Your Matter

Youssef Ibrahim – Solicitor

View Youssef's full profile →

Henry McCabe – Law Clerk

View Henry's full profile →

What Our Clients Say

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Van Nguyen 
 09/08/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Outstanding legal service – highly recommended!

We are extremely grateful to Randle & Taylor for their professionalism, responsiveness and support during one of the most challenging periods our company has faced.

A special thank you to Jonathan Brohier, who has been absolutely outstanding throughout the entire process. Jonathan was incredibly responsive, acted quickly when urgent matters arose, and consistently provided clear, practical and reliable advice. Most importantly, we always felt that we could genuinely rely on him when we needed support the most.

His commitment, professionalism and calm approach made a significant difference to our company during a very difficult time. Jonathan went above and beyond what we expected from our legal counsel, and we truly appreciate having him by our side.

Randle & Taylor has provided us with a 5-star level of service, and Jonathan is an exceptional lawyer who we would have no hesitation recommending to other businesses.

Thank you, Jonathan and the entire Randle & Taylor team, for standing with us through a difficult chapter. We sincerely appreciate your support and dedication.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Starry Candy 
 13/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I did a quick free phone consult today and Nick was very helpful. Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Janine Neumann 
 11/03/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Brilliant service every time. Highly recommend their business.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Pablo Samels 
 18/01/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Angus and Jonathan helped us with a legal issue, and we couldn’t be more grateful. Not only they did an excellent job, but they also genuinely cared about us and our situation. They took the time to listen and made us feel supported throughout the process, something that isn’t always easy to find in the legal world.
If you’re looking for legal help that is both highly professional and genuinely personal, I couldn’t recommend them more.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Katarina V 
 29/08/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patrick and the team were thoroughly professional, diligent and committed to resolving our matter.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sarah Bloomfield 
 27/08/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend. This is a company that doesn't just treat you like a number. Randle and Taylor dealt with our affairs with kindness and respect.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bailey White 
 26/08/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Randle and Taylor have done amazing things for my family. A supportive, professional and compassionate organisation
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rob Cornish 
 08/11/2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My family and I cannot speak highly enough of the care the support we received from Jonathan.  He helped our son start over and he has gone from strength to strength.  It is hard to find trust when a loved one needs help,  but you will not be sorry putting your faith in this honourable company.   Thank you Jonathan, blessings.
  
 
  
  
 
 
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Defamation Law in South Australia

Commonly Asked Questions

What is defamation?

Defamation in South Australia refers to the publication of material that damages a person’s reputation by exposing them to hatred, ridicule, or contempt. It must be false, communicated to a third party, and cause financial harm to the subject’s reputation.

If you believe you’ve been defamed, or if someone has claimed you’ve defamed them, it’s important to get advice from a qualified defamation lawyer as early as possible.

How do I start a defamation lawsuit?

You should first consult a defamation lawyer to assess the merits of your case. In South Australia, legal proceedings must begin within one year of the defamatory publication. You’ll need to send a “concerns notice” to the publisher before formally suing. We can help you throughout the process.

What do I do if I’ve been defamed?

Document the defamatory content, whether it’s a social media post, article, or spoken statement. Avoid responding directly. Contact a defamation lawyer in Adelaide promptly to discuss your options, which may include seeking a public apology, retraction, or monetary compensation.

Can you sue for defamation in Australia?

Yes. Australian defamation laws allow individuals (and certain companies) to sue for defamation if their reputation has been harmed by false statements. The action is governed by the Defamation Act 2005 (SA) and related common law principles. Contact us if you are considering suing for defamation.

What is needed to prove defamation?

To prove defamation in South Australia, you must establish that:

The material was published to a third party.
The content identifies you directly or indirectly.
The publication is defamatory (i.e., it damages your reputation). You do not need to prove actual damage if harm can be reasonably inferred.

What is libel in Australian law?

Libel refers to written or published defamatory material, including online posts, articles and images. It’s treated the same way as spoken defamation (slander) under current South Australian defamation law.

What is considered slander in Australia?

Slander refers to spoken defamation—false verbal statements that cause reputational harm. Like libel, slander is actionable if it can be proven to have been published (heard by someone else) and caused harm.

What is the difference between slander and defamation?

Defamation is the broad legal term that includes both slander (spoken) and libel (written). While older laws treated them differently, South Australian and Australian defamation law now treats both forms under the same legislation.

Are social media posts considered defamation?

Yes. Social media content—such as Facebook posts, tweets, or comments—can be considered defamatory if it meets the legal criteria. Even sharing or reposting defamatory content can potentially expose you to liability.

Can businesses sue for defamation in South Australia?

In general, only individuals or small businesses with fewer than 10 employees can sue for defamation in South Australia. Larger companies may need to pursue other legal avenues, such as claims under the Australian Consumer Law.

In South Australia, the time limit for an individual or small business to sue for defamation is generally one year from the date of publication of the defamatory material. However, the court has the discretion to extend this limitation period to a maximum of three years.

Contact Adelaide's Trusted Defamation Lawyers

If you believe you’ve been defamed, or if you’ve received a legal notice accusing you of defamation, don’t wait. The sooner you seek advice, the better your chances of resolving the issue quickly and effectively. We’re here to help — get in touch today.

No Obligation Initial 15 Minute Telephone Consultation

(08) 8223 6477