October marks the start of Shocktober, a month dedicated to raising awareness about sudden cardiac arrest—a condition that affects over 30,000 Australians each year. When sudden cardiac arrest strikes, every second counts. Performing CPR and having access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can significantly improve the chance of survival. In fact, for every minute without intervention, a person’s chance of survival decreases by 10%.
At St John Ambulance Tasmania, we’re committed to ensuring that communities are equipped with life-saving AEDs. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the reopening of our Community Safe Program. This initiative offers community groups and non-profit organisations the chance to apply for a free AED, ensuring that Tasmanians have access to this vital equipment when it matters most.
Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in Australia, but quick access to an AED can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. Despite this, many organisations across Tasmania lack access to AEDs. By reopening the Community Safe Program, St John Ambulance Tasmania aims to bridge that gap and make our communities safer.
In previous grant rounds, AEDs have been distributed to a wide range of organisations across Tasmania. JCP Youth, a charity that empowers at-risk youth, and The Dogs’ Home of Tasmania have both received AEDs, giving them the confidence to respond in emergencies. Smaller community groups, such as the Nepalese Football Club and the Peter Murrell Walking Group, have also benefited, ensuring their members are ready to act in a crisis.
Andrew Paynter, CEO of St John Ambulance Tasmania, encourages all community organisations to apply.
“Whether you're a large charity or a smaller grassroots group, anyone making an impact in their community, big or small, should apply for an AED. Every organisation deserves the tools to save lives, and we're here to help make that happen,” he said.
Apply Today and Keep Your Community Safe
At St John Ambulance Tasmania, we are committed to making Tasmania a safer place for everyone. Through the Community Safe Program, we aim to ensure that every corner of our community is equipped and prepared to act when an emergency occurs.
If you’re a community group or non-profit organisation in Tasmania, this is your opportunity to receive a free AED and ensure your team is prepared to handle sudden cardiac emergencies.
Additionally, throughout Shocktober, St John Ambulance Tasmania is offering special pricing on our G5 AEDs. By purchasing an AED, not only are you equipping your organisation with life-saving technology, but you’re also directly supporting the continuation of this essential program, ensuring that more AEDs are made available to those who need them most.
Click the link below to be part of this life-saving initiative and make sure your community is ready when it matters most.
