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 History
Emergency Services within Queensland, comprising ambulance, fire and
counter disaster, has a long and proud history.
This service to the community is underpinned by the dedication and commitment
of the many staff and volunteers who make up the workforce.
The Queensland Ambulance Service celebrated its centenary in 1992. Until
1991, the service had existed as a series of ambulance transport brigades
run by 96 separate Local Ambulance Committees. The Queensland Ambulance
Service was fully incorporated into the then Bureau of Emergency Services
in July 1991 following the tabling of the first report of the All-Party
Parliamentary Select Committee of Inquiry into Ambulance Services. Following
a review in 1996, the Queensland Ambulance Service was established as
a statutory authority. The Local Ambulance Committees now play a very
important role providing advice and funds to support the operation of
their local ambulance service.
The fire services
of Queensland were provided through 81 local Fire Brigade Boards until
1990 with the urban and rural services operating as separate organisations.
In 1990, the Fire Services Act was proclaimed replacing the boards and
creating a single statewide Queensland Fire Service incorporating the
Rural
Fire Division. Following a review of the Queensland Fire Service in
1996, it was established as a statutory authority and renamed Queensland
Fire and Rescue Authority.
The amalgamation of the various bodies into Queensland Ambulance Service
and what is now Queensland Fire and Rescue Authority provided a platform
for integrated services across the State. It ensured that variations in
the standard and level of service to the community were reduced or eliminated.
The Emergency Services Legislation Amendment Act 1998 established the
Emergency Services Advisory Council to provide advice to the Minister
on the extent to which current service delivery satisfies community needs.
The Emergency Services Advisory Council includes
representatives from major stakeholder groups such as the Local Government
Association of Queensland, relevant major unions, Local Ambulance Committees,
business communities, universities and the rural sector.
We have come a long way. Click here
to go to the Community page and take control of an interactive scrolling
timeline showcasing photos of the Emergency Services' involvement in the
community - right back to the 1800s!
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