Community sport clubs and organisations across Willoughby can now apply for up to $9,000 to access life-saving defibrillators, as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.

Member for Willoughby Tim James said sport is part of the fabric of life in the community, with more people participating in sport and active recreation.

“Medical experts say the first eight minutes following a cardiac arrest are critical, so early access to CPR and a defibrillator is essential to increasing a patient’s likelihood of survival” Mr James said.

“This funding will enable our local sporting organisations and councils to install these defibrillators so they are equipped to respond to life-threating emergencies.

“I encourage all our sporting clubs to apply for these grants that will help prevent the trauma, and the heartache, that cardiac arrest can cause families. I am incredibly proud of the work we have done here in Willoughby over the last 10 months rolling out defibrillators across the community”.

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the NSW Government has committed an additional $2 million over four years to the program.

“Whether you’re at your local sailing club or playing footy with your mates, when someone has a cardiac arrest, time is crucial – they can happen to anyone, anytime, or anywhere so it’s vital that a defibrillator is readily accessible ” Mr Henskens said.

“Through this funding, the NSW Liberals and National Government is ensuring our sport clubs and venues are safe environments for everyone, both on and off the field.”

The Local Sports Defibrillator Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs. Up to $3,000 is available per device with organsiations able to apply for up to three devices valued at $9,000.

Applications are open and close Friday, 10 February 2023. For more information on the Program, visit: https://sport.nsw.gov.au.