St John WA paramedics to undergo mandatory family and domestic violence training

Thousands of paramedics and triple-0 call takers are set to undergo mandatory training to help tackle WA’s scourge of domestic violence. Under a $2.1 million package from the State Government, St John WA call-takers, paramedics and volunteers will receive four hours of intense mandatory training to help them better identify and respond to domestic violence. The training announcement comes after a shocking series of high-profile domestic violence incidents in WA, with 15 women allegedly losing their lives at the hands of current or former partners so far in 2023. St John joined with Stopping Family Violence to design and deliver the training, which is set to be included in the ambulance service’s ongoing continuing education program. More than 5000 people at St John are expected to receive the training. Paramedics respond to about 6000 calls every year from people showing injuries that relate to suspected domestic violence incidents, with Prevention of Family and DV Minister Sabine Winton saying St John staff often the first to have contact with victims who were reluctant to tell the police. “Our State’s first responders play a vital role in responding to calls for assistance from people who are experiencing family and domestic violence,” Ms Winton said. “I am pleased to be able to announce the start of this important training initiative during the 16 Days in WA campaign.” Ms Winton encouraged the public to think about how they could also play their part in stopping domestic violence. The Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline is available on 1800 007 339 and the Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline can be reached at 1800 000 599 for men who want help to change their behaviour.