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Defibrillators in Strata: Why More Strata Buildings Are Installing AEDs
- Pulse Defibs
- Feb 12
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 12
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death in Australia, affecting approximately 30,000 Australians every year - that’s 82 people every single day. A staggering 80% of cases occur at home, yet most defibrillators are found in gyms, sports grounds, and other public spaces rather than close to where people live. This mismatch highlights a critical gap in emergency preparedness.
The good news: by rethinking where defibrillators truly belong, we have the potential to save lives.
In this article, you’ll discover how defibrillators in strata communities can make a real difference, the statistics behind their impact, and gain access to our Guide to Defibrillators in Strata, which provides practical & resources steps for strata managers and owners to get started with AED installation.
What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest & How Does a Defibrillator Help?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, preventing blood and oxygen from reaching the brain and vital organs.
When SCA strikes, every minute counts. Without intervention, the chance of survival decreases by about 10% for every minute that passes. This is where a defibrillator, or Automated External Defibrillator (AED), can make a life-saving difference.
An AED is a portable, easy-to-use device that analyses the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, delivers a controlled electrical shock to restore a normal heartbeat. It also coaches the rescuer through performing CPR.
If a defibrillator is used within the first 3–5 minutes, survival rates can be as high as 70%. Without access to a defibrillator, survival is often below 10%.
Modern AEDs are designed for use by anyone, including people with little or no training.
Why Strata Buildings Need Defibrillators
With the large majority (80%) of out-of-hospital SCAs occurring at home, it just makes sense to have defibrillators nearby. So why don’t we have AEDs in every home? The short answer is simple: they cost money and, in most cases, are unaffordable & not justifiable for the average household.
That’s where strata comes in. Strata communities offer a unique and highly economical solution, where a single defibrillator placed on common property can serve multiple homes at a shared cost for owners. This provides residents with access to life-saving equipment where they need it most, at a fraction of the cost.
Strata buildings are the solution to making defibrillators accessible where they can have the greatest impact, and implementation is simpler than you might think.
How Many AEDs Does Your Strata Building Need - and What Do They Cost?
Depending on the size and layout of your building, we generally suggest starting with one strategically placed defibrillator. A common mistake is planning to install devices on every floor, making the investment feel too overwhelming and ultimately resulting in no AEDs being installed.
Our advice:
A single AED, is better than no AED.
The best AED is the closest AED.
When choosing a location, prioritise areas with regular foot traffic that are accessible to all residents promptly. Seeing the device frequently will help residents remember its location in an emergency.
Think building & garage entrances, lift areas or foyers.
A quality defibrillator typically costs between $2,000 and $3,000 and should come with everything required, such as a cabinet, signage, prep kit, and CPR charts. However, not all devices are created equal. We recommend prioritising the following features when selecting an AED for your strata building:
Ease of use & CPR feedback
An adequate shock (200 Joules)
Long life pads & batteries (5 years)
Compliance with current & future regulations (MDR Certification)
Supplier support & manufacturer warranty (7 years minimum)
To encourage more strata communities to install defibrillators that meet the above criteria, Pulse Defibs is offering 10% off all defib bundles. Get in touch with our team and quote your strata plan number to claim this exclusive strata discount.
Mindray C1A
ZOLL AED PLUS
ZOLL AED 3
Does Installing a Defibrillator in Your Strata Building Carry Liability?
Many strata managers and owners wonder if installing a defibrillator exposes them to legal liability. The good news is that in Australia, there is no liability, provided reasonable steps are taken to ensure the device is maintained.
As explained by Natalie Fitzgerald, Director of the Strata Community Association NSW, in a recent announcement in collaboration with St John Ambulance: “There is no liability in having AEDs in your building. There is literally nothing to lose - except lives if we don’t take action.”
Key points to consider:
Good Samaritan laws protect individuals who use an AED in an emergency from legal repercussions.
Strata committees should ensure the AED is serviced annually and fully operational.
Maintaining records of installation, servicing, and training demonstrates due diligence.
Look for suppliers that offer installation, demonstration & servicing.
For more information on servicing, head to our Defibrillator Servicing page.
Our Guide to Defibrillators in Strata
At Pulse Defibs, we believe strata communities are the key to reducing deaths from Sudden Cardiac Arrest. That’s why we created our Guide to Defibrillators in Strata, helping owners and managers confidently approve, purchase, install, and maintain defibrillators in strata plans across Australia.
Inside you'll find:
Defibrillator model information & recommendations
Special strata exclusive pricing
Frequently asked questions
Meeting notice & voting forms
Special By-law
Servicing & maintenance information
Contact Pulse Defibs today to arrange a defibrillator for your strata plan. Our services include Supply, Installation, Demonstration and Maintenance.
P: (02) 8488 5221
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