• 13th Nov 2024

Media release: Victorian Government’s introduction of landmark Paramedic Practitioner a major step forward for paramedicine

The Australasian College of Paramedicine (the College) welcomes the Victorian Government’s introduction today of a new parliamentary bill to enable the creation of Paramedic Practitioners in the state. This initiative, an Australian first, marks a significant step forward in the evolution of paramedicine and is a major boost for person-centred care and the broader healthcare system.

The Paramedic Practitioners Bill 2024 will allow appropriately qualified paramedics to deliver a higher level of care to patients when and where they need it, including handling and administering scheduled medicines so they can prescribe and supply medicines on the spot to Victorians.

Paramedic Practitioners will be able to assess and treat a broader range of conditions, initiate therapies, and manage patient care in the community, which will reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and help to alleviate the demand on emergency departments and GP clinics.

“The College strongly advocates for professional recognition and expanded career opportunities for paramedics, and the creation of a Paramedic Practitioner role in Victoria is a transformative step for the profession and for the healthcare system as a whole,” said College CEO John Bruning.

“This reform gives paramedics the tools they need to provide enhanced patient care, enabling a more tailored and holistic approach to patient management. It means that highly trained and skilled paramedics can treat patients in the community, preventing unnecessary hospital transfers and easing the pressure on an already overburdened health sector.”

At present the first cohort of 30 paramedics are currently undertaking a Paramedic Practitioner master’s degree at Monash University, who will be deployed to regional Victoria in 2026.

“This landmark bill is a vital step in the ongoing evolution of paramedicine and represents an important milestone in ensuring that Australian healthcare continues to be responsive, innovative, and focused on the needs of the patient. By investing in the development of Paramedic Practitioners, Victoria is leading the way in improving patient care and strengthening the healthcare workforce,” Mr Bruning said.

“We are excited to see this initiative unfold and look forward to working closely with the Victorian Government to ensure its success.”

Media contact:

Jemma Altmeier, College Advocacy and Government Relations Manager; email: jemma.altmeier@paramedics.org; phone: 0409 911 681

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