Restart a Heart Day is an international awareness day held each year on 16 October to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest and the life-saving importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
The day aims to increase public confidence to recognise cardiac arrest, call for help, start CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED), giving more people a chance to survive.
Why this matters
- Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any age.
- Survival rates increase dramatically when CPR is started immediately.
- Many people hesitate to act due to fear of doing something wrong.
- Early response by bystanders can save a life before emergency services arrive.
- Planning and preparedness reduce panic and improve outcomes in medical emergencies.
Restart a Heart Day reminds us that basic skills and quick action can mean the difference between life and death.
In Australia, Restart a Heart is supported by ambulance services and health organisations to increase public confidence in CPR and AED use.
Event Co-ordination / Support
International
- European Resuscitation Council
Global organisation leading Restart a Heart Day internationally, promoting CPR training and cardiac arrest awareness worldwide.
Australia
- Council of Ambulance Authorities
Coordinates World Restart a Heart activities across Australia, supporting ambulance services and public education to increase bystander CPR and AED use. - Australian Resuscitation Council
National body providing evidence-based resuscitation guidelines and education used across Australia.
