26 August 2026

 

THE State Government is investing $500,000 to help eligible sporting organisations purchase, install and maintain Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), as well as provide training, improving safety at local sporting facilities across NSW.

 

Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time, and every minute without defibrillation reduces a person's chance of survival.

 

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong, David Harris said, “With more people than ever participating in sport and active recreation in Wyong electorate and across the Central Coast, it’s vital that our sports facilities are equipped to respond to potentially life-threatening incidents.

 

“Last year's successful applicants who received new defibrillators in the Wyong electorate were Woongarrah Wildcats Football Club and Kanwal Warnervale Rovers Football Club.

 

“I urge our local sporting organisations to apply for a grant to have this equipment installed at their facilities.”

 

Sporting clubs often face financial barriers to purchasing and maintaining an AED and this Program helps more organisations access this essential equipment.

 

Member for Swansea, Yasmin Catley said that when someone’s life is on the line, every second counts and having a defibrillator close by can mean the difference between life and death.

 

“Funding these defibs is a small way the Minns Labor Government is helping give our community access to the best healthcare possible, regardless of where you are," Ms Catley said.

 

“I urge sporting clubs across the Swansea Electorate to check whether you have a defib, think about the difference it could make to even one life and take the time to apply.”

 

Since the Program’s introduction in 2017, more than 2,500 AEDs have been installed at community sport and recreation facilities across NSW, supporting sporting organisations to improve emergency preparedness and participant safety.

 

Member for The Entrance, David Mehan said, “Sporting clubs are at the heart of our communities, and they need to be equipped to respond when emergencies happen.

 

“A defibrillator can save a life, and this funding makes it easier for local clubs to have one on hand when it matters most.

 

“I encourage sporting organisations across the Central Coast to apply for up to $3,000 and help make our local sporting facilities safer.”

 

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch said it was wonderful that more people are getting active and involved in community sports around the Central Coast, and it was important that our local facilities are equipped to respond when emergencies occur.

 

“I would strongly encourage eligible sporting organisations to apply for funding through the Program,” she said.

 

To enhance emergency response efforts, support community safety and improve public access to equipment in the event of cardiac emergencies, all devices that receive funding under this year’s program will be listed on the GoodSAM AED Registry.

 

Applications for the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program close 7 October 2026 or earlier if available funding is exhausted. For further information and to apply, visit here.

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