Australia: Paramedic and ambulance staff plan to strike in New South Wales May 18

Event

The Health Services Union has called for a 24-hour industrial action in New South Wales (NSW) from 06:00 May 18 to call for wage increases. Paramedics and ambulance staff will refuse to transport medically discharged patients from hospitals to homes and residential and aged care facilities. Emergency cases, as well as patients under dialysis and end-of-life care, are exempt from the action. Participation in the action is unclear, though thousands of workers could join the strike. Unless averted, the labor action could affect ambulance services in the state.

Striking workers could hold protests, though organizers have not announced specific plans. Demonstrations could occur at offices of the Health Services Union, hospitals and medical facilities, public squares, and local government buildings. While violence is unlikely, police will probably monitor gatherings as a precaution. Localized transport disruptions are possible near demonstrations, primarily if events draw sizeable turnouts, especially in Sydney.

Advice

Plan for potential ambulance service delays May 18. Consider alternative transport if experiencing non-life threatening symptoms or injuries. Exercise caution near any protests.