The Emergency Medical Service Protection Association, EMSPA for short (and pronounced 'm-spa') was originally formed in Queensland by members of the Queensland Ambulance. After lengthy and productive discussions with our Queensland colleagues it was decided to form a mirror Association here in NSW. With the help, support and guidance of the executive committee of EMSPA (Qld) an interim executive committee was setup in NSW. After much time and enthusiastic effort the Emergency Medical Service Protection Association (NSW) Inc. came to fruition in February 2009.

A small group of NSW Paramedics from the western sector of Sydney decided to investigate the possibility of providing all Paramedics with an alternative choice of representation. They set about exploring current organisations nationwide that represented employees within the health profession with a view to offering similar here in NSW. It was found that Queensland Paramedics had had very similar problems and that the model of representation they had implemented was a perfect fit for NSW.

The sole reason of this organisation is to create a communal fund for ASNSW employees to contribute to in order for them to access appropriate legal advice and representation for employment-based matters. All members have access to every cent in the fund should they require legal advice and/or representation for an employment-based matter.

Whatever positives may develop from this organisation; be it staff awareness and pro-activity, or improved communication across the state; will be just added bonuses due to the prime objective of legal advice and representation for members.

In recent times staff of ASNSW eagerly awaited the arrival of a much touted major review of their working conditions. Descriptors such as 'reform' 'professional status' 'fatigue' 'workload' 'skills upgrades' were all constant topics of discussion. That time presented itself in September 2008 with a new Award for Ambulance Paramedics in NSW. The subsequent implementation of these sweeping changes proved to be just more disappointment to Officers who had pinned their hopes on a more equitable workplace. As the anticipation of fresh changes waned, the disappointment turned to anger and frustration. An alternate representative body was required and the new Association was born.

The Association is a legally registered Incorporated body in NSW and acts on behalf of its members, Paramedics of the Ambulance Service of NSW. Whilst we share many similarities and resources with our Queensland colleagues the NSW Association is totally autonomous and acts specifically for NSW staff.

As a measure to minimise conflict of interest and to provide well defined parameters, our representation will be limited to Paramedics up to and including the rank of Station Manager (working in all areas of ASNSW), Patient Transport Officers (PTO) and Emergency Medical Dispatchers (EMD).

We have onboard an experienced team of legal advisers who have a significant workplace and industrial relations record.

Please spend some time familiarising yourself with the website. As we grow you will find more and more links and information available to you. Our aim is to always remain accessible to you the members and with your support we will achieve success.