Northern Victoria sports clubs can now apply for a lifesaving defibrillator, so players, spectators and parents can step in during an emergency until paramedics arrive. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes advised clubs applications are open to secure a life-saving device. The State Government is rolling out 1000 defibrillators to community clubs. Clubs will be assessed on location, the age of members and the sport played, but also the number of volunteers who will be trained to provide emergency care. The governments investment means thousands more Victorians will be equipped to use the life-saving device. Nobody should die participating in the sport that they love, Ms Symes said. Labor is listening to the experts, who tell us early intervention is crucial to survival. When cardiac arrest strikes there isnt a second to spare. More than a dozen Victorians suffer cardiac arrest every day, our investment will save lives. Early intervention can be the difference between life and death, and were giving clubs the chance to act fast. Immediate CPR, easy access to equipment and a clear emergency plan is the key to making sure an emergency on the field doesnt cost a player or supporter their life. Successful clubs will be required to implement a sports medical plan, so that they are prepared to act fast in an emergency. The new devices will appear on an Ambulance Victoria database, so that triple zero operators can direct callers to an additional 1000 devices available when emergency strikes within the community. For more information or to apply online visit www.sport.vic.gov.au