Community & Business
27 February, 2025
Push for defibrillators in rural communities gains momentum
Rural communities are being urged to install more defibrillators as part of a growing push to save lives from sudden cardiac arrest.
Local first aid trainer Neil Walker says farmers and rural residents are at a disadvantage when it comes to medical emergencies.
“The survival rate for cardiac arrest in Australia is only about 12 per cent, but with quick access to a defibrillator, that number could be much higher. The problem is, for many rural properties, an ambulance simply won’t get there in time,” Mr Walker said.
Studies show that using a defibrillator within the first three minutes can increase survival rates up to 70 per cent.
In rural areas, this critical window is often missed because of distance.
That’s why farmers and rural businesses are being strongly encouraged to get their own defibrillator.
“With so much focus on farm safety, an AED should be seen as essential—just like a fire extinguisher,” Mr Walker added.
Local first aid training providers teach how to use an AED as part of their courses.
Advocates continue to push for more knowledge of defibrillators to ensure lifesaving equipment is within reach when it matters most.
Accidental Health & Safety, Warwick & Toowoomba
