Ambulance Tasmania is a crucial part of the Tasmanian Health Service and the Hodgman Liberal Government is committing more resources to this important service.
With a total of 35 additional paramedics to be employed across the state, I am pleased to announce today a number of changes that will enhance ambulance services across the Greater Hobart area.
The changes will see a new, additional, 24/7 crew based at Glenorchy supporting the Greater Hobart area.
In addition to the 24 FTE for the two new crews in Northern and Southern Tasmania, additional staff will provide for an extension in shift coverage in Hobart and Mornington.
This decision will ensure the best response time and coverage of Central, Northern and Eastern Shore suburbs, adding an additional 70 hours ambulance coverage per day to Tasmanian communities.
This will be supported by an additional call-taker 24 hours a day in the State Operations Centre in Hobart, to help manage surges in calls and allow dispatchers to ensure ambulances get on the road sooner.
This comes on the back of my visit to the Launceston ambulance station yesterday, where we are spending $850,000 on upgrades to modernise and bring it up to standard.
The recruitment process for the 35 new paramedics is well underway, and will provide additional and improved rostering. They are expected to commence in September.
The Hodgman Government proudly supports Ambulance Tasmania paramedics and their commitment to their important role in the community.