Ambo's ACT

01/03/2026

Sunday night demand is increasing with four crews requesting second ambulance backup to assist with patient care

01/03/2026

Two years ago today, Gungahlin’s 25-year-old Joint Emergency Services Centre was shut down because of contamination.

And what followed should never have happened in one of Canberra’s fastest-growing regions.

Ambulances were operating out of a nearby hotel carpark. Police were working from temporary trailers and using portaloo's and our community was left without a functional, fit-for-purpose emergency services station.

Eventually, after a coat of paint and some minor improvements, the building reopened. But two years on, there’s still been no real progress on a long-term solution. No commitment to a modern, purpose-built facility that matches Gungahlin’s size, growth and risk profile.

That would be concerning at any time and It’s even more worrying now.

Newly released documents show staffing shortages have forced multiple ambulance station closures across the ACT since mid last year. Internal reports reveal ambulances regularly missing target response times. Paramedics have been working “dangerous” 16-hour shifts just to keep the system afloat.

A senior ambulance official even warned that four-hour shift extensions to 3am were a “dangerous fatigue practice”, saying staff safety should come first. In one message to night shift crews: “Full transparency, tonight is looking a little bleak. We have 5 ambulances on this evening…”

The roster review found night shifts were understaffed 96 per cent of the time and that the ACT needs 83 more full-time paramedics just to meet minimum requirements. The service had planned for 147 new paramedics by August 2025. Only 108 joined. Forty-three left.

Ambos are burnt out. Stations are closing. Ambulances are tied up more often than not. And response times are suffering.

Yes, there are plans and workforce strategies promised. New recruits are coming, but right now the system is stretched and Gungahlin still doesn’t have the modern, resilient emergency services infrastructure it deserves.

Public safety isn’t a “nice to have”, It’s core business.

Two years on from the closure of our emergency services centre, Gungahlin residents are still waiting. It’s time to put an end to the future strategies and endless plans, shovels in the ground and let’s get on with making our community safer.

01/03/2026

The Canberra Liberals say internal documents reveal mounting pressure on the ACT Ambulance Service, with routine station closures and paramedics working long hours amid staffing shortages.

01/03/2026

Staffing shortages 'unacceptable' in Canberra, opposition says.

28/02/2026

14/02/2026

Here's a reminder on the most romantic day of the year - a little mood lighting never hurts. Happy Valentine's Day!

13/02/2026

10/02/2026

Are you a paramedic looking to work in a city that gives back?

Applications are open for experienced paramedics to join the ACT Ambulance Service.

As part of ACT Ambulance Service, you’ll work with highly skilled colleagues, access
ongoing development and make a real impact in one of Australia’s most liveable cities.

The ACT Ambulance Service welcomes all levels of experienced paramedics to apply.

Recruitment is underway for the positions of Ambulance Paramedic and Intensive Care Paramedic.

Applications close 6 March 2026. Find out more at https://esa.act.gov.au/join-us/careers/actas

08/02/2026

CLICK on the page to view a video showing paramedics assisting an injured dog after extrication by Fire & Rescue

Firefighters have pulled a dog from a burning home in Canberra's south yesterday.

29/01/2026

Following an inter-hospital mission from Bombala to Canberra Hospital, the whole crew pitched in to put everything back in its right place for the next tasking. Behind every successful mission is a crew that works as one.

📷 Badger Photography

24/01/2026

It's going to be a hot weekend Canberra! 🥵

If you’re heading out to an outdoor event, working outside, or spending time in the sun, please take extra care.

💧 Stay hydrated:

◾️ Drink water regularly - don’t wait until you feel thirsty
◾️ Avoid excess alcohol and caffeine
◾️ Take regular breaks in the shade or cool areas

🧢 Reduce heat exposure:

◾️ Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and sun protection
◾️ Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
◾️ Where possible, spend time indoors or in air-conditioned spaces

🚑 Know the warning signs:

◾️ Headache
◾️ Dizziness or fainting
◾️ Nausea or vomiting
◾️ Feeling weak or unwell

If someone becomes confused, collapses, has very hot skin, or stops sweating, this could be heat stroke - a medical emergency.

📞 Get help early:

◾️ For health advice: Healthdirect 1800 022 222
◾️ If symptoms worsen or are severe: call Triple Zero (000) or go to the nearest emergency department

Please also check in on older people, children, pregnant people, and neighbours, and don’t forget your pets - everyone feels the heat differently.

For updates and official advice, follow the ACT Emergency Services Agency and trusted sources.

Stay cool, plan ahead, and look out for each other. ☀️💙