Today, Australian Paramedics Association (NSW) (‘APA (NSW)’) members will undertake an unprecedented 12-hour strike from 7 am to 7 pm. The action will defy orders made by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission yesterday, following a rushed hearing brought on by the Premier’s lawyers.
The action marks a significant escalation in the paramedics’ campaign for equitable wages, improved working conditions, and resolution of the healthcare crisis in NSW.
Despite the Premier’s legal team’s efforts at the IRC to halt the strike, APA (NSW) members remain determined. President Mr. Brett Simpson states, “This strike symbolises our unyielding quest for justice. We want to assure the public that emergencies will still be attended to, with our focus intensifying on life-threatening cases. Our decision to limit responses to non-emergency jobs enhances our capacity to manage critical cases.”
“Yesterday evening over 90% of APA (NSW) members voted to support the strike, reflecting our collective resolve. Facing potential legal repercussions and a substantial fine of up to $20,000 per day, our commitment remains firm,” Mr. Simpson adds. “This fight is about our paramedics’ welfare and the quality of healthcare for everyone in NSW.”
“As the lowest paid in the country, our paramedics not only suffer financially but also experience a draining of skilled professionals to other states. Coupled with our exhaustion and a sense of continuous betrayal since the election of the Minns government, the issues run deep.” Mr. Simpson added. The strike is a call to action for the community. “This isn’t just about us. It’s about the well-being of the entire NSW community. Paramedics are the linchpin for the safety and security of every person in NSW. We urge public support to safeguard healthcare quality,” implores Mr. Simpson.
APA (NSW) remains resolute in advocating for the public and standing in solidarity with our colleagues across health and the community. “As we navigate this pivotal moment, our unity and commitment to a better, safer, and fairer healthcare system in NSW have never been stronger,” concludes Mr. Simpson.
