CPHER

Recent Australian research has highlighted a critical issue — women experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are significantly less likely to receive CPR and defibrillation than men. They are also less likely to survive and more likely to experience long-term neurological damage. This gap is often driven by hesitation, lack of awareness, and training that doesn’t reflect real-world scenarios — particularly around female anatomy and how symptoms can present differently.

As an organisation that trains surf lifesavers every year in CPR and AED use, Yamba Surf Life Saving Club is uniquely positioned to lead change in this space.

CP-HER has been developed to address this disparity by building awareness, improving training practices, and increasing confidence to act without hesitation in an emergency. The initiative introduces more inclusive training methods, including the use of female manikins and scenario-based learning that better represents the community. It also incorporates the latest research into training programs, with a focus on recognising cardiac arrest in women and challenging common misconceptions that can delay response.

Beyond training, CP-HER is about shifting behaviour. Through education, open conversation, and clear community messaging — such as the simple reminder that a chest is a chest when it comes to CPR — the initiative encourages immediate action, regardless of gender.

By strengthening both skills and confidence, CP-HER aims to improve survival outcomes across our community and ensure that lifesaving response is equal, instinctive, and free from bias.