Tasmania ambulance delays spike as paramedics redeploy to regional gaps
Smithton ambulance station in Tasmania lost its local officer four times since July. This happened because paramedics were moved to other areas.
Tasmania is moving paramedics from major cities to cover regional gaps, but this leaves both cities and country towns dangerously short-staffed. Since July, Smithton ambulance station has lost its local officer four separate times.
Emergency crews then had to travel from outside the region. Health and Community Services Union secretary Robbie Moore warned the practice puts lives at risk.
When Smithton lacks coverage, crews are pulled from Burnie. Burnie then works with too few staff.
Travel time slows response speed when seconds matter. Moore said the volunteer model for paramedic services is failing across the state.
This is because tasks are getting harder and fewer volunteers are staying. The government promised in March to hire three paramedics for Smithton.
It will also have a 24/7 officer there. Consultation began August 27.
- Four
- Shifts without officer
- Burnie
- Covering region
- Three
- Promised paramedics
Why it mattersIn emergencies, every minute of delay can mean the difference between life and death. How fast a crew arrives directly affects whether someone survives.
AustraliaTasmanians in regional areas face longer ambulance waits due to staff shortages. Response times from towns like Burnie and Smithton are now unpredictable.
Corroborated bytheadvocate.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 11 d ago
