General News
26 January, 2024
Respect for those who save our lives
While many people are continuing to enjoy time off from work and school, they are being reminded to spare a thought for those whose job is to save our lives, as our local first responders face increased incidents of violence and aggression.
While many people are continuing to enjoy time off from work and school, they are being reminded to spare a thought for those whose job is to save our lives, as our local first responders face increased incidents of violence and aggression.
"For our paramedics and first responders it’s one of the busiest and toughest times," Ambulance Victoria's Grampians acting regional director Peter Jenkins said.
"For paramedics to provide treatment to you or your loved one, they need a safe environment to work in that's free from aggression or abuse.
"Unfortunately, an assault or attempted assault is reported by paramedics every 15 hours.
"Across the state, paramedics are reporting a rise in violent assaults and verbal abuse.
"Injuring an emergency worker in Victoria is a category one offence and carries a mandatory minimum six-month jail sentence."
Incidents of occupational violence increased by 14 per cent in 2022-23 as 580 cases were reported last financial year, 21 of which occurred in the Grampians region.
This trend has continued, with 10 incidents reported from July to November.
"We’ve seen horrific behaviour recently, including a paramedic who was hit and forced to the ground and another incident where paramedics had to flee after a member of the public tried to force their way inside the ambulance,” Mr Jenkins said.
“We have zero tolerance for these disgusting and illegal acts, and we do not accept occupational violence as ‘part of the job’."
Mr Jenkins said paramedics would leave a scene if they felt unsafe.
“Our people’s safety comes first and they will always be supported not to enter a scene or to retreat if they believe they are at risk," he said.