Life-Saving Defibrillators Coming to Hunter Sports Clubs

Sports facilities across the Hunter are set to benefit from a new initiative by the NSW Government, offering $500,000 in funding for the installation of life-saving defibrillators.

Local sporting organisations can apply for grants of up to $3,000 to purchase automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for their venues. Since the program began, over 2,000 defibrillators have been installed at sports facilities throughout New South Wales.

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison, emphasised the importance of this initiative for the community.

“With more people participating in sports and active recreation than ever before, it’s crucial that our local facilities are prepared for emergencies,” she said. “This program supports Maitland’s sporting organisations in equipping their venues with essential life-saving equipment.”

Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, highlighted the critical role defibrillators play in responding to cardiac emergencies.

“Each year in NSW, there are over 9,000 cases of cardiac arrest occurring outside of hospitals,” he noted. “Having immediate access to a defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death. The NSW Government is committed to ensuring that participants in sports have access to this vital equipment.”

Professor Jamie Vandenberg, Co-deputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, also stressed the life-saving potential of defibrillators.

“Quick and easy access to a defibrillator could save someone’s life during a sudden cardiac arrest,” he explained. “Survival rates nearly double if a defibrillator is used within the first few minutes. Currently, only one in ten people survive a sudden cardiac arrest outside of hospital, but we can improve this statistic by installing more defibrillators in sports clubs across the state.”

Applications for the grants close on 27 November 2024 or when funding is fully allocated. Local sports clubs and organisations in Newcastle, Maitland, and Lake Macquarie are encouraged to apply.

For more information and to check eligibility criteria, visit the NSW Office of Sport’s website.