Investing in ACT paramedics


Released 13/07/2020

The ACT Government is delivering on investments in the ACT Ambulance Service (ACTAS) and has signed a new enterprise agreement to ensure our paramadics are well supported to keep the Canberra community safe.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said three new vehicles had recently arrived to the ACTAS fleet to strengthen front line response and complement extra paramedics the ACT Government has invested in.

“This completes our $14.3 million dollar commitment to provide 30 additional paramedics and 10 state of the art vehicles to the ACT Ambulance Service,” Minister Gentleman said.

“By the end of July, all ACT Ambulances will be fitted with state-of-the-art equipment including new radios and electric Stryker stretches. These are designed to reduce physical strain on paramedics, drive efficiency and enhance patient comfort.

“The roll out of the three new vehicles is in addition to the seven already on the roads, including six for front line personnel and one for non-emergency patient transport (NEPT).”

Chief Officer ACT Ambulance Service Howard Wren said “This upgrade has and will continue to benefit the health, safety and wellbeing of our paramedics and our patients”.

“ACTAS already operates with some of the best response times in the country, and these major investments will ensure our paramedics are well equipped to support the Canberra community when they need it most.”

Minister Gentleman also announced the ACT Government had signed a new ACTAS enterprise agreement that is focused on building a modernised ambulance service.

“The new ACTAS EBA includes investments in staffing, employment opportunities and health, wellbeing and safety initiatives,” Minister Gentleman said

“I deeply appreciate the service of our paramedics and this agreement will mean they can have rewarding careers in the ACT Emergency Services Agency where they are well trained and equipped to carry out their important work.

“A nominated workforce planning committee will help develop solutions around rostering, annual leave and flexible work arrangements for ACT paramedics.

“The agreement also creates career development opportunities by offering ambulance paramedics access to a revised career progression pathway in the form of a new Level 2 classification, which will help further modernise the workforce.”

- Statement ends -

Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases


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