A new campaign launched this week aims to reduce non-emergency calls to Ambulance Tasmania and keep this life-saving service for genuine emergencies.
Ambulance Tasmania responded to 120,831 incidents in 2025-26, an increase of 7,034 incidents (6.2 per cent) compared to 2024-25.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Bridget Archer said triple zero is a critical service for emergencies.
"We always want people to call triple zero in an emergency, and we want to assure Tasmanians that people will get the emergency care they need," Minister Archer said.
"However, up to one in five calls to triple zero do not require an ambulance to be dispatched.
"If emergency call takers, dispatchers, and paramedics are tied up with non-emergency work, it can keep them from getting to those who genuinely need lifesaving and emergency care.
"By knowing where to get the right care for your needs, our paramedics can be available where they are needed most."
The Save 000 for Emergencies campaign launched on Monday 19 October 2026 through radio and social media.
The campaign will launch on Tasmanian buses, free-to-air TV, and streaming services on Monday 26 October 2026.
Minister Archer urged anyone with an emergency medical condition or injury to call triple zero without delay.
"If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening medical emergency or injury, call triple zero, and our ambulance crews will be there to help you."
"If you are not sure what to do or need advice about a health issue, call 1800MEDICARE to speak with a Registered Nurse 24/7.
"The nurse will ask about your symptoms and guide you, whether that's looking after yourself at home, or accessing a health service in your area such as a GP, a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, pharmacy, or Emergency Department.
Chief Executive of Ambulance Tasmania, Nicole Ashworth, said the campaign would help keep paramedics available for those who need them most.
"Ambulance Tasmania is experiencing unprecedented community demand, and we need our paramedics available to respond to emergencies,'' she said.
"For health issues that aren't emergencies, choosing the right care - whether through a GP, pharmacist, or Urgent Care Clinic - helps people get the support they need and keeps ambulances available for those who need them most.
"Help us save lives. Save triple zero for emergencies."
Find your nearest Medicare UCC and their opening hours at: www.health.tas.gov.au/medicare-urgent-care-clinics
