DEFIBRILLATORS AT LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS WILL SAVE LIVES

The Andrews Labor Government is rolling out 1000 life-saving defibrillators to local sports clubs across Victoria.

Minister for Sport, John Eren, joined Member for Brunswick, Jane Garrett, and members of the North Brunswick Football Club at Allard Park to make the announcement.

The 2015-16 Victorian Budget provided $2.7 million to deliver the life-saving devices. A grants program encouraging clubs to apply will open in the new financial year.

A player down on the footy field is every parent’s worst nightmare, and when cardiac arrest strikes, each second counts.

Research shows early intervention increases the likelihood of survival in an emergency. The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring players and spectators can step in and help until paramedics arrive.

Some 30,000 Australians suffer cardiac arrest each year. Fewer than five per cent survive, often because help doesn’t reach them in time. Now, players and spectators can get the early intervention they need – when they need it.

Sporting clubs who already have defibrillators are encouraged to register with Ambulance Victoria, giving their local community an up-to-guide of where to find defibrillators.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, John Eren:

“When cardiac arrest strikes, there isn’t a second to waste. A person’s chance of survival decreases 10 per cent every minute that passes without defibrillation.”

“More than a dozen Victorians suffer cardiac arrest every day. Our investment will save lives.”

“Immediate CPR, easy access to equipment and a clear emergency plan is the key to making sure an emergency on the field doesn’t become a tragedy.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Brunswick, Jane Garrett:

“A player down on the footy field is every parent’s worst nightmare, and when cardiac arrest strikes, each second counts. These defibrillators will give heart attack patients the best chance at survival.”