Legislative Council, Wednesday 14 August 2024 

Ms FORREST question to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

With regard to ambulance services on King Island and the Government’s commitment to employing paramedics and providing a suitable facility for the current volunteers and paramedics:
1. What is the actual and specific timetable for:
a. Identification of the site for the new facility;
b. Notification of the actual site for the new facility;

c. Securing the site for the new facility;
d. Planning approval for the new facility;
e. Completion of the new facility;
f. Recruiting of the paramedic(s);
g. Employing the paramedic(s);
h. Commencement date of the paramedic(s); and

2. How many FTE paramedic positions will be sought?

ANSWER:

A feasibility study of suitable locations on King Island has been completed and I can advise the preferred location is 35 Edward Street, located within the King Island District Hospital and Health Centre Grounds.

An initial concept design is being developed to illustrate the exact location and layout of the proposed station, which should be finalised in coming weeks.

As the preferred site is located on existing Crown land, no additional land acquisition is necessary.

I’m advised that plans are scheduled to go to council for planning approval by May 2025 with approval of the development application by the start of August 2025, and construction expected to be complete by the end of April 2026.

Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s future includes a commitment to recruit 78 new full-time paramedics. I can advise two of these paramedic positions will be station at King Island. However, the community paramedics in District

Hospitals initiative requires a new service delivery model, as it is different to how community paramedics currently operate and are deployed in the regions.

The development of the service model is currently subject to consultation with key stakeholders and union bodies. Once the service model is determined the training program will be developed and recruitment of the community paramedics will commence, and this will inform the onboarding process.