Govt Invests Over $21M in Hato Hone St John to Support Emergency Services

Minister for ACC Matt Doocey emphasized the importance of this funding to ensure the continued delivery of road ambulance services across the country.

The Government has announced a substantial $21 million investment to enhance the emergency services provided by Hato Hone St John, Associate Minister of Health Casey Costello and Minister for ACC Matt Doocey confirmed today. The funding boost is part of a broader effort to ensure that essential emergency health services continue to operate effectively across New Zealand.

"Hato Hone St John plays a critical role in ensuring timely treatment for people during emergencies, and this uplift comes at a time when financial resources are tight," said Associate Minister Costello. The additional funding brings the total financial support for St John's emergency road ambulance and communication services to nearly $357 million for the 2024/25 financial year. This funding is provided jointly by Health New Zealand and ACC, reflecting a collaborative approach to support the vital work of St John.

Minister for ACC Matt Doocey emphasized the importance of this funding to ensure the continued delivery of road ambulance services across the country. "This investment guarantees that New Zealanders will have ongoing access to critical emergency healthcare through well-funded ambulance services," Doocey stated.

In addition to the funding boost, Minister Costello expressed satisfaction that negotiations with Hato Hone St John's unions have successfully concluded, ensuring that there will be no further industrial actions that could disrupt emergency services. "Health NZ and ACC have worked closely with St John to mitigate any potential disruption to services and to ensure that New Zealanders continue to receive the emergency care they need," Costello added.

The announcement underscores the Government's commitment to supporting essential emergency services and maintaining stable working conditions for healthcare workers. With the funding now secured and labour disputes resolved, Hato Hone St John is well-positioned to continue delivering high-quality emergency services throughout the country.