Housing to support recruitment

They will begin working from the Deniliquin station on April 12, after two days of rural training the week prior.

The $10 million for housing NSW Ambulance personnel is allocated from the Minns Labor Government’s $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation program, which was announced in the 2024/2025 State budget.

This is the second allocation for Deniliquin under this program.

In February it was announced that housing for key staff with Murrumbidgee Local Health District would also be funded.

With exact funding allocation for Deniliquin yet to be confirmed from either announcement, the number of homes that will be provided is unknown.

The NSW Government, however, has suggested the $200.1 million program will deliver about 120 dwellings across regional NSW.

This includes the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and the purchase of suitable properties such as residential units.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said it is estimated the four-year program will support the recruitment and retention of more than 500 health workers and their families by providing a range of accommodation options.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in modern, sustainable accommodation options for key health workers, including paramedics, who are the backbone of our regional, rural and remote communities,” Mr Park said.

“We’re committed to strengthening our regional, rural and remote ambulance workforce.

“The provision of simple accommodation close to work is a major draw card for healthcare workers potentially looking to take up work in the regions.”

NSW Ambulance chief executive Dr Dominic Morgan said the housing support helps paramedics in their service to the community.

“Our paramedics play a vital role in delivering life-saving care to communities across New South Wales, especially in regional and rural areas,” he said.

“The people of Deniliquin can have confidence that New South Wales Ambulance is dedicated to providing high-quality emergency care, in their community and right across the Riverina.”

Timelines for the provision of housing for MLHD staff and paramedics has not been confirmed.