AV recognises the challenges of distance and access to healthcare that regional and rural communities experience. We understand their needs are unique, and we know that increasing engagement with regional communities is critical to helping us to better meet their needs.
To support this, we commenced a community forum series.
The first forum was facilitated in May 2025 at the Traralgon Golf Club and was an overwhelming success. With 86 participants in attendance, the forum offered a welcoming space for all community members to hear about AV鈥檚 strategic direction, share their lived experiences and contribute to shaping the future of ambulance care in Gippsland.
Attendees embraced the opportunity to take part in the world caf茅 conversions with members of the Executive Team, Community Advisory Committee and local paramedics, followed by a networking lunch and exhibition including CPR demonstration.
Key themes emerging from the discussions at the forum and the post-event survey include:
- Strengthening trust between AV, its staff, volunteers, and the broader community through transparent communication and responsiveness.
- Enhancing collaboration with local emergency services, health providers, and community groups to improve engagement, education and culturally appropriate care.
- Streamlining coordination between emergency and health services to ensure seamless integration and efficient service delivery.
- Expanding community education on when to call an ambulance and promoting alternative care pathways for non-emergencies.
- Prioritising equity and inclusion to improve access for multicultural communities, First Nations and vulnerable populations.
- Strengthening preparedness and resilience through strategic planning for disasters, ageing populations and infrastructure challenges.
To address these themes, a regional engagement plan is being developed to drive meaningful improvements and AV will continue to partner with community and consumers to inform service design and quality care that is safe, person and family-centred, equitable and clinically effective.
The forum was wonderful! The presentations, with facts were so informative and I loved the world cafe style. The venue and food were also great. I don鈥檛 have any suggested improvements; it was really well done. Thank you.
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