The Minns Labor Government is helping community sporting organisations improve safety at local sports grounds and facilities, with $500,000 now available under the 2026 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.
Eligible sporting organisations can apply for grants of up to $3,000 to purchase, install and maintain Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), as well as provide training.
Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time, and every minute without defibrillation reduces a person’s chance of survival.
Sporting clubs often face financial barriers to purchasing and maintaining an AED and this Program helps more organisations access this essential equipment, with priority given to clubs in disadvantaged communities and those experiencing financial hardship.
Since the Program began in 2017, more than 2,500 AEDs have been installed at community sport and recreation facilities across NSW, a track record the Minns Government is committed to building on as part of its broader investment in grassroots sport and community safety.
All devices funded under this year’s program will also be listed on the GoodSAM AED Registry, meaning that in an emergency, members of the public nearby, not just club members, can quickly locate and access the nearest defibrillator.
The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program forms part of the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to grassroots sport, sitting alongside other initiatives supporting participation, facilities and safety for clubs across the state.
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 Grants and funding.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“We know every minute counts when someone suffers a cardiac arrest, and having a defibrillator close by can save lives.
“That’s why we’re helping more community sporting organisations install this vital equipment and be better prepared if an emergency happens.
“I encourage eligible organisations to apply for funding.”
Professor Jamie Vandenberg, Co-deputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, said:
“Being able to access a defibrillator quickly and easily could be the difference between life and death for someone suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.
“Survival rates can more than double if a defibrillator is used in the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest.
“Currently less than one in 10 people who have a sudden cardiac arrest outside of hospital will survive.
“This is a sobering statistic but it’s one we can change for the better by installing more of these lifesaving devices in sports clubs across the State.”