The Tasmanian Government has invested $50,000 to support the attraction, retention and training of volunteer ambulance officers across the state.
The funding, provided under a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Volunteer Ambulance Officers Association of Tasmania (VAOAT) and Ambulance Tasmania, will be used to purchase equipment for training and supporting volunteer officers.
Health Minister Jacquie Petrusma said the investment fulfills a commitment made during the 2022 state election and will assist volunteers in providing “life-saving care” to communities.
“Volunteer Ambulance Officers make an extraordinary contribution to their local communities, working side by side with paramedics across the state,” she said.
“This new MOU will ensure our volunteers continue to have access to the training and development opportunities they need to provide the best care possible.”
The funds will also be directed towards promoting volunteer opportunities within the service.
During National Volunteer Week in May, Ambulance Tasmania CEO Jordan Emery highlighted the significant contribution of over 400 volunteers to the organisation.
“Last year they gave more than 200,000 hours of support to our organisation and to Tasmanian communities,” he said.
“Ambulance Tasmania volunteers are the very best of Tasmania.”
“They care deeply about their communities, they care deeply about their colleagues within our organisation and they care deeply about providing high standards of care to everyone they interact with.”
