Ambulance Victoria review – Update 18 (30 May 2023)

30 May 2023

I’m pleased to provide the latest update on the Commission’s Independent review into workplace equality in Ambulance Victoria.

Since the delivery of our Phase 1 final report, Ambulance Victoria has been progressing Phase 2 of the review – focused on implementation of our 43 initial recommendations.

While this work continues, we have been in discussion with Ambulance Victoria to determine the scope and timing for Phase 3 of the review – during this phase, the Commission will return to Ambulance Victoria and assess its implementation of priority recommendations from Phase 1.

Based on previous independent reviews, we know that progress evaluations of this type are an important way to reinforce the rigour, transparency and integrity of the review process and ensure we can support the organisation to continue transforming its workplace culture and systems.

In discussion with Ambulance Victoria, we have agreed on the timeline for this progress evaluation, which will begin in June 2024 and conclude in November 2024. At the conclusion of this phase, we will deliver our findings and any further recommendations in a public report.

The timeline for Phase 3 is later than originally scheduled, in recognition of the significant scale of reforms we recommended in Phase 1. For this progress evaluation to meaningfully assess Ambulance Victoria’s progress to implement our recommendations, it’s vital that there is sufficient time for the reforms to effect meaningful change in workforce culture and oversight arrangements and action to address significant risks.

The progress evaluation will focus on the implementation of 25 priority recommendations from Phase 1. These recommendations cover prevention and safety, reflective practice, governance and oversight, reporting and complaints, organisational capability, flexible work, equal representation, pay and progression. We are developing criteria in consultation with Ambulance Victoria and other stakeholders, which will allow us to effectively assess the implementation of these recommendations.

As we get closer to Phase 3, we will provide further information about how the progress evaluation will be conducted.

Warmly,

Ro Allen
Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner

 

Media contact

Peter Davies
Mobile: 0447 526 642
Email: peter.davies@veohrc.vic.gov.au

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