CWA of WA launch petition to improve ambulance funding
14 September 2022
The Country Women’s Association of WA (CWA of WA) has launched a petition calling for ambulance transport to be made free for all Western Australians, as in Queensland and Tasmania, and for the State Government to adequately fund regional ambulance sub-centres.
The petition calls for the high cost of ambulance services to WA residents be addressed.
“Many people are shocked to find out after using an ambulance that they have been sent a bill of over $1,000 for a life-saving medical service, CWA of WA State President, Mrs Anne Gething said.
“While pensioners are usually exempt from these charges, and others have insurance cover, for other people it’s a huge cost.
“It is unacceptable that people feel compelled to transport an extremely ill patient to hospital by car, in fear of a large cost.”
Mrs Gething said ambulance services are vitally important in regional communities, but a lack of funding and resources is placing extra pressure on volunteers.
“While there are over 100 regional sub-centres, the vast majority of these are run by volunteers,” Mrs Gething said.
“This means most regional communities rely on the hard work of country ambulance volunteers to raise funds, purchase life-saving equipment, and keep ambulances on the road through a combination of fee income, one-off grants, and community fundraising.”
Mrs Gething said increased pressure for ambulance services in recent years was challenging for volunteers and patients. Given the State Government’s strong financial position, more needs to be done to support ambulance services.
“In a State as wealthy as WA, there’s no reason why volunteers should be fundraising to keep local ambulances running. The State Government must step up and provide adequate operational funding for regional ambulance sub-centres.”
Mrs Gething said the Country Women’s Association of WA is extremely thankful to WA’s ambulance volunteers. Regional WA is very fortunate to have over 3,000 ambulance volunteers who give up their time to help others.
Through this petition, the CWA of WA aims to ensure ambulance services are made free at the point of use for all WA residents, as well as guarantee regional ambulance subcentres are appropriately funded and resourced to meet the needs of their communities.
The petition will be remain open until 11 October. Shadow Regional Health Minister Martin Aldridge MLC will facilitate the petition in Parliament.
To sign the petition, visit: https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/LCePetitions.nsf/petitions/22-0019
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