Nationals Member for Tweed Geoff Provest MP is encouraging local sporting clubs and organisations to apply for funding under the 2026 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.
The NSW Government has made $500,000 available through this year’s program, with eligible sporting organisations able to apply for grants of up to $3,000 to purchase, install and maintain an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), as well as provide training for club members.
Mr Provest said cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere and at any time, making access to an AED at local sporting facilities critically important.
“Every minute counts during a cardiac arrest, and having an AED on hand can mean the difference between life and death,” Mr Provest said.
“Our local sporting clubs play an invaluable role in bringing the community together, and this program helps ensure they have access to equipment that could save a life.”
Mr Provest said the grants would assist clubs that may otherwise struggle to meet the costs of purchasing and maintaining an AED.
“Community sporting organisations work hard to support players, volunteers and families, often with limited financial resources. These grants help remove a significant cost barrier while improving safety for everyone who uses local sporting facilities.”
Since the program began in 2017, more than 2,500 AEDs have been installed at community sport and recreation facilities across New South Wales.
All AEDs funded through the 2026 program will also be registered on the GoodSAM AED Registry, allowing members of the public and emergency responders to quickly locate the nearest available defibrillator during an emergency.
Mr Provest encouraged eligible sporting organisations across the Tweed electorate to submit an application before funding is exhausted.
“I encourage every eligible sporting club in the Tweed to consider applying. This is a practical investment in community safety that has the potential to save lives.”
Applications for the 2026 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program close on 7 October 2026, or earlier if available funding is fully allocated.
For information on eligibility and to apply, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/local-sport-defibrillator-program-lsdp-2026/27