Ambulance Tasmania is actively addressing staffing needs at Ambulance Tasmania so we can provide the best possible service to the community in their time of need.
In 2014/15 we were able to achieve the lowest levels of overtime in five years. An increased number of paramedics on the ground contributes significantly to this.
While the overall trend in overtime is downwards, we are currently working to manage a large amount of unplanned leave.
Ambulance Tasmania is working to proactively address the coverage for shifts and overtime will work with staff and unions put in place short-term strategies to deal with unexpected leave.
We are also in the process of recruiting a new generation of paramedics to improve frontline services.
As of July 6, Ambulance Tasmania has had eight new staff members commence induction.
This week we approved 14 Paramedic Interns to be offered permanent positions based on merit following a selection process, subject to successful completion of their internship and final recruitment processes.
Our normal second recruitment for the year occurs in September is approaching finalisation, when we will see staff numbers increased further.
There will also be further recruitment for 12 new paramedics to be based in Devonport/ Latrobe area from this time next year, which was part of the recent changes to patient transport announced by the Health Minister.
We are also rescheduling annual refresher training to ensure that the largest number of staff are available for rostering until the new staff commence.