Wheatbelt Regional Organisation of Councils" written below.
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NEWROC Projects

Volunteer Emergency Ambulance Services

  • Project Status: Advocacy in Progress
  • Shires Involved: All NEWROC member shires

Why this matters

Volunteer ambulance services are the backbone of rural health in the NEWROC region. But without adequate funding and volunteer support, these essential services are at risk. This isn’t just a health issue - it’s about safety, economic stability, and the wellbeing of every person who calls this region home.

Background

The NEWROC region relies heavily on volunteer-led emergency ambulance services. However, critical issues such as volunteer burnout, underfunding, recruitment barriers, and ageing equipment are placing enormous strain on these essential services. In 2024, NEWROC commissioned a detailed report to investigate the challenges faced by local sub-centres and provide a basis for stronger advocacy and funding support.

Purpose

To ensure sustainable, accessible emergency ambulance services in the NEWROC region by advocating for baseline funding, volunteer support systems, and recognition of local governments' role in sustaining this essential service.

NEWROC's Actions

  • Commissioned a regional report identifying key barriers to sustainable emergency ambulance services

  • Advocating for baseline operational funding for all rural sub-centres

  • Proposing recognition of training across emergency volunteer services (e.g. fire + ambulance)

  • Seeking ongoing police support for volunteer safety at emergency scenes

  • Highlighting the hidden economic costs carried by local businesses when staff volunteer

  • Showcasing case studies (e.g. the Waters family) to demonstrate the cultural importance of volunteering in rural WA

Project Documents or Supporting Files

Three St John Volunteers in uniform stand smiling beside two ambulances outdoors on a sunny day.
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The North Eastern Wheatbelt Regional Organisation of Councils (NEWROC) represents the local government areas of Dowerin, Koorda, Mt Marshall, Mukinbudin, Nungarin, Trayning and Wyalkatchem. 

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