WARD CONGRATULATES SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND CALLS ON NSW TO JUMP-START DEFIBRILLATOR REFORM

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward today congratulated the South Australian Parliament on taking a bold and proactive step to protect lives by making Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) mandatory in public buildings under legislation that comes into effect from January 1, 2025.

The landmark initiative, introduced by the Hon. Frank Pangallo, Independent Member of the Legislative Council and supported by South Australia’s Health Minister Chris Picton, mandates AED installation in state and local government buildings, schools, sports venues, entertainment centres, and emergency vehicles — with further expansion to public transport and commercial properties by 2026.

Mr Ward has introduced similar legislation in NSW and whilst the Coalition have backed the Bill, Health Minister Ryan Park and NSW Labor continue to oppose it. 

“This legislation will save lives in South Australia, and it could be saving lives in NSW. Ryan Park and NSW Labor are literally playing politics with these lifesaving devices and Mr Park needs to explain why the people of NSW shouldn’t have the same level of protection as the people of South Australia,” Mr Ward said. 

“Every second counts during a cardiac arrest, and readily available defibrillators significantly improve survival rates,” Mr Ward said.

“Minister Ryan Park and the NSW Government can follow South Australia's lead. If Labor wants to have their name on the bill - let them introduce a government bill. I’ll back it. 

Mr Ward highlighted that South Australia’s model includes government grants of $1,000 to assist not-for-profits in purchasing AEDs, a practical measure NSW could easily replicate to reduce barriers to compliance.

“Whilst defibrillator grants are available, NSW Labor has changed the criteria which means that grants are only given out based on socio-economic status. Once, everyone could apply, now we have old fashioned class warfare alive and well. 

Mr Ward reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for similar laws in NSW and called on the NSW Government to engage constructively with the legislation he has already tabled.

“It’s time for Minister Ryan Park to step up. If South Australia can do it, so can we,” Mr Ward concluded.