October 24, 2014
People who assault nurses, doctors and paramedics will face up to 14 years in jail under tough new laws introduced by the State Government.
Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said thousands of health workers were punched, stabbed, bitten and spat on every year in Queensland while serving the public in their daily duties.
Many of the violent attacks were fuelled by alcohol and drugs.
“Assaults, whether they are physical or verbal, on our health workers will not be tolerated and the Queensland Government is appalled that even one nurse, doctor or paramedic is attacked. It is inexcusable and shameful behaviour,” he said.
“It is a startling reality that more than 24,500 health care employees reported being a victim of a violent incident at work in the past five financial years. More than 4400 health workers in the last financial year alone were victims of violence in their workplace.
“If you think it is okay to assault our health workers, we’ll give you up to 14 years to think again. It is simply not acceptable and that is why we have doubled the penalty.”
Darling Downs Hospital and Health Board Chair Mr Mike Horan said violence against staff members was not tolerated.
“Hospital and health service staff work hard and provide quality care to our patients and consumers,” Mr Horan said.
“Our staff strive to provide the best care possible and they should be able to do that without fearing assault.
“Violence in the workplace, either physical or verbal, is completely unacceptable.
“Staff welfare is a key component of the Board’s strategic plan so we are fully supportive of the
announcement.”
Across the DDHHS – which includes all hospitals in the South Burnett – during the 2013-14 financial year there were 393 reported incidents of violence, or 9.15 per cent of the State total.
“I hope this serves as a deterrent and there is less violence inflicted upon health workers,” Mr Horan said.
State Government promotional video:
[UPDATED]
