Engaging the Community in Ambulance Service Delivery

Brown T¹*, Cunnington D²*

1. Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
2. Queensland Local Ambulance Advisory Committee, Brisbane, Australia

The Queensland Ambulance Service was borne out of local communities being committed to ensuring the safety of is members, more than 100 years ago. Over the years these local advocates have evolved into Local Ambulance Committees (LAC). These Committees have been instrumental in establishing a statewide ambulance service (the Queensland Ambulance and Transport Brigade in the early 1900s) and later the transition of the service to the Queensland State Government (formation of the Queensland Ambulance Service in 1991).

Since coming under the banner of the Department of Emergency Services, LAC’s around the state have been fundraising to support local service delivery. LACs have also been pivotal in gaining community support for the work of the QAS. More recently with the introduction of Community Ambulance Cover, LAC’s have taken on new challenges and are expanding their focus on community safety outcomes and awareness activities.

Currently there are some 179 LAC’s across the State, from as far and wide as Cunnamulla to Chermside, with more than 1500 volunteers. In a climate where volunteers are difficult to find, this year alone the QAS has worked with two local communities to establish new LACs. The growth of LACs continues. We have a well established model, with local committees linking with the Regional Management Structure and supported by a Statewide Advisory Council.

This is a true example of community participation, engagement and empowerment. LACs provide a fantastic link between a large Government agency and local people. Many of the QASs prevention and preparedness programs have been developed, and are implemented with the support of LACs.

Click here to view the full paper