Ambulance Victoria has expressed serious concern after two female paramedics were allegedly set upon in a violent assault on Main Street, Mornington earlier today (13/9).
The paramedics were walking the street at approximately 11:30am when they were allegedly attacked. They were not treating a patient or attending a case at the time.
One of the paramedics sustained injuries after allegedly being kicked by the alleged offender and is currently being assessed in hospital. The matter is now in the hands of Victoria Police, who are investigating.
Members of the public who witnessed the alleged assault came to the paramedics’ aid.
Acting Executive Director Regional Operations, Michael Georgiou, said the health and wellbeing of the crew involved is Ambulance Victoria’s immediate priority.
“We are providing every support to our paramedics following this frightening incident,” Georgiou said.
“Our people come to work to care for the community, they should never be threatened or assaulted while simply doing their job.
“I want to acknowledge the bravery and support of the community members who stepped in to assist our team.”
Assaults against paramedics are not uncommon. Every week, paramedics across Victoria experience some kind of occupational violence while serving the community.
Ambulance Victoria has a zero-tolerance approach to violence and aggression towards our paramedics. Any form of abuse – whether physical, verbal – is unacceptable.
“Paramedics are highly trained health professionals who deserve to be treated with respect. Violence against healthcare workers is never acceptable and will never be tolerated,” Georgiou said.
“Our top priority is the safety of our paramedics and first responders, and they have our full support to leave an incident if they ever feel unsafe.”
For more information on the impact of occupational violence on paramedics and how you can help, visit www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/campaigns/respect-our-paramedics.
