New Queensland Ambulance Service Commissioner appointed

Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner David Melville APM has been appointed Commissioner of the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS).

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said Mr Melville has served as Acting QAS Commissioner since 25 February this year after a distinguished 30-year career in the Queensland Police Service.

“I congratulate David Melville on his appointment, and thank him for the contribution he has already made to the Queensland Ambulance Service,” Mr Roberts said.

“The QAS is one of the largest ambulance services in the world and is facing significant challenges including unprecedented demand for its services.”

“The QAS needs a leader with strong operational and people management skills and David Melville fits the bill.”

“The Government has provided the QAS with record funding, which has supported the largest ever recruitment drive in the Service’s history. Over 255 additional ambulance officers will join the QAS this financial year.”

“As a result of the recent Ambulance Audit, the QAS is refocusing its resources on frontline service delivery. The immediate priority is to reshape the organisation for the future, and David Melville is the person to do it.”

Mr Melville joined the Queensland Police Service in 1978, after serving in the Commonwealth Police Force from 1976 to 1977.

His distinguished police service has been recognised with the awarding of an Australian Police Medal (APM), a National Medal and a Queensland Police Service Medal.

His academic qualifications include Master of Educational Administration, Graduate Certificate in Applied Management, Graduate Certificate in Public Policy and a Bachelor of Arts.

Mr Melville’s appointment is for three years effective from 15 May.

For a picture of Mr Melville please e-mail kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au.

8 May 2008
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3247 8194 or 0418 197 350