The Andrews Labor Government is giving more grassroots clubs in the Werribee electorate another chance to own life-saving defibrillators and receive emergency training.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas today announced sport and recreation clubs across the Werribee electorate have one final opportunity to apply to the Defibrillators for Sporting Clubs and Facilities Program.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than 1,100 defibrillators to local clubs – one hundred more than our initial commitment because we know they save lives.

In March, a recreational cyclist was successfully revived using the Otway Districts Football Netball Club’s defibrillator – delivered thanks to this live saving program.

In a life threatening sudden cardiac arrest – every second counts, and bystanders play a vital role. The chance of surviving a cardiac arrest decreases by 10 per cent every minute that passes without defibrillation.

This new round will provide more opportunity for clubs in the Werribee electorate to get hold of defibrillators so that they are on top of their game when it comes to helping players and spectators, or even a passer-by when they need it most.

The use of public defibrillators for cardiac arrests has soared four-fold from 2.8 per cent in 2006/07 to 11 per cent in 2015/16.

Along with sporting clubs, community organisations delivering active recreation programs are encouraged to apply, and those clubs who already have a defibrillator are urged to register them with Ambulance Victoria.

Clubs that have a defibrillator over eight years old should also consider applying to the program to replace their ageing defibrillator with a new unit, delivering greater reliability and reduced maintenance costs.

For more information or to apply online visit sport.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Record numbers of people in the Werribee electorate are signing up to play the sports they love – so we want more of our clubs to have the right equipment and training in case an emergency strikes.”

“Our defibrillator roll out has been a huge success, and I urge all sports clubs in the local area to apply now for this life-saving equipment and skills.”    

Quote attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren 

“My cardiac arrest changed my life. I know only too well just how important it is to have a defibrillator nearby.”  9