More than 2500 Automatic External Defibrillators will be rolled out across the state over the next four years.

I encourage local sporting clubs to take this opportunity to apply for a grant to help fund an AED - which can be the difference between life and death. The program will fund up to 50 per cent of the defibrillator cost, along with training and maintenance support.

More than 33,000 Australians experience cardiac arrest every year, and the first eight minutes are critical to improve the likelihood of survival.

The scheme targets community sports clubs, but applications from licensed sports clubs and organisations associated with schools, churches universities, and councils will also be considered. Applications close December 20. For information visit: sport.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants

Have your say on palliative care in NSW

The NSW community is asked to participate in a palliative care survey to ensure everyone receives the support and services they deserve at the end of life.

Recently the NSW state government released a consultation paper based on feedback from community roundtables. Providing quality palliative care services to every resident of NSW is a key priority for the NSW government.

We are investing an extra $100 million over the next four years to provide more tailored, community-based palliative care services, on top of the about $210 million already spent each year.

We listen carefully to the community’s views on where and how palliative care services can be improved so we have a strong plan for the future.

The consultation paper and feedback from the survey will inform a new palliative and end-of-life care policy in NSW.