The ACT Ambulance Service (ACTAS) and local paramedics will receive $27.6 million in the 2022–23 ACT Budget, so they can meet additional demand in the years ahead as Canberra’s population grows.

The funding will procure additional intensive care paramedics, an intensive care paramedic program, and additional triple zero call centre positions.

“This investment into ACTAS will also help our paramedics maintain their excellent response times and support long-term staff wellbeing,” a government spokesperson said.

The ACTAS organisational structure will be reformed to improve operational performance and service delivery, enhance staff wellbeing, and provide professional development opportunities to foster a more resilient, adaptive, and capable workforce.

“This budget initiative will support our paramedics’ wellbeing and professional development so that we can continue to have a nation-leading ambulance service,” said Mick Gentleman, ACT Minister for Police and Emergency Services.

The Budget will also include additional funding for ongoing vehicle expenses, an updated fit-out to the Communications Centre, and modernised ICT infrastructure.

“The ACT Government is proud of the work of the ACTAS in supporting our community, particularly over the last few years through the COVID-19 pandemic,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

“Our local paramedics are always there when Canberrans need them, and this investment will help ensure that they can continue to deliver a vital community service as our city grows.”

The ACT Government remains committed to working with ACT Ambulance Staff (ACTAS) staff, the Transport Workers Union, and the Emergency Services Agency to support paramedics and modernise the ambulance service, Mr Gentleman said.

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