The ACT Ambulance Service (ACTAS) will commence publishing quarterly reports on key workforce, workload and performance measures.
During the first quarter of 2026, ACTAS received close to 20,000 Triple Zero (000) emergency calls, representing the highest demand ever recorded.
In many of these cases, callers were safely supported by experienced call takers and clinicians over the phone, meaning appropriate clinical advice could be provided without dispatching an ambulance. These figures highlight that 000 is frequently being contacted for non-emergency situations.
Despite this demand performance remains strong. The latest report shows the median response time continues to meet the desired target and 90% of Priority 1 (life-threatening) cases receive an ambulance within 20 minutes.
The complete report can be found on the ESA website: https://esa.act.gov.au/about-esa-emergency-services/ambulance/reporting.
Minister for Police, Fire, and Emergency services, Dr Marisa Paterson, is committed to working transparently with ACTAS to support paramedic wellbeing and retention.
"Our ACTAS staff and paramedics are incredibly dedicated, and I acknowledge that they are working under significant pressure. I will continue doing what I can to support them and improve conditions," Dr Paterson said.
"Stabilising roster coverage remains a priority as we build a strong and sustainable ambulance service for the ACT."
Quotes attributable to ACTAS Chief Officer, David Dutton:
"The ACT Ambulance Service continues to work under increasing demand. Despite the pressures, our call takers and paramedics consistently demonstrate professionalism and compassion, delivering care in challenging circumstances.
"Our people deserve honesty about the realities of the job. Being transparent about demand and capacity is part of how we support our workforce and build trust with the community."
