Budget boost to ambulance services great news for Queenslanders

The Palaszczuk Government will deliver a budget boost of almost $40 million to the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) in 2015-16 as part of the Government’s record $14.2 billion investment in the health of Queenslanders.

Ambulance Services Minister Cameron Dick said the record $633.3 million budget allocation to the QAS – an increase of $39.2 million on the amount spent last year – would support growth and sustainability for the service.

“We have an ambulance service that is the envy of other states with a highly professional workforce of dedicated and skilled paramedics, emergency medical dispatchers and patient transport officers that provides outstanding care,” Mr Dick said.

“However, it is vitally important that we continue to provide the QAS with the modern facilities and resources it requires to effectively cater for the needs of our growing population.”

Mr Dick said the funding increase would enable the QAS to recruit an additional 75 paramedics throughout the state.

“This boost to the QAS workforce will help the service keep up with the increase in demand we are experiencing due to our ageing population.

“We have also provided funding for 155 new and replacement vehicles to keep the ambulance fleet in excellent condition.”

Mr Dick said the Government had also provided funds towards capital works projects in a number of communities.

“Our program of works includes the completion of replacement ambulance stations at Miriam Vale and Russell Island.

“We will also see the completion of the design phase and start of construction on new or replacement stations in Bundaberg, Collinsville, Birtinya and Rainbow Beach and the continuation of works on the replacement station and relief quarters on Thursday Island.

“I’m also very pleased to announce the start of design works for new stations at Kenilworth and Yandina on the Sunshine Coast as well as a replacement station at Coral Gardens on the Gold Coast.

“The Government is committed to making sure our paramedics have the modern and functional infrastructure they need to continue delivering high quality health care and emergency services in all Queensland communities,” Mr Dick said.

Media contact: Anna Jabour 0403 322 992