Additional staff, a new service model and new ambulances are to be introduced to the ACT Ambulance Service (ACTAS) in the 2021-22 ACT Budget due to be brought down on 29 October.
Announced by Treasurer Andrew Barr, the Budget allocation is to help modernise and sustain the Service over the next four years with additional behind-the-scenes capability to support growing frontline demand.
“This includes new Paramedic Duty Officers, Triple Zero Communications Centre staff members, Infection Control Officer, Research and Data Management Officer, ICT Connectivity Support Officer and a Transformation and Capability Development Team,” Mr Barr said.
“Government is working with the Emergency Services Agency and ACTAS staff to transform the Ambulance Service to ensure it continues to meet the needs of our growing city,” he said.
“Five new low-emissions vehicles will also be introduced into the ACT Ambulance Service fleet to help achieve the ACT Government’s emissions reduction targets.”
Mr Barr said the 2021-22 allocation would begin the implementation of a new service model to be rolled out over the coming years.
He said the new model aimed to improve the Emergency Triple Zero triage process and procedures and add specialised response capabilities such as infections control.
“We’ve seen a growth in demand for emergency services, particularly in mental health and primary healthcare.
“Increasing our ambulance service capability will ensure the community continues to receive efficient and safe triage, dispatch and referrals,” Mr Barr said.
