Change in Law Promised After Attack on Paramedic

Ambulance Victoria wants stronger laws to protect paramedics.

In short, paramedics need better protection.

A law loophole lets some people avoid jail for attacking paramedics.

Attacks on emergency workers are a concern after a paramedic was stabbed.

What's next for paramedic safety?

The government will review laws to prevent attacks on emergency workers.

The government wants to close a loophole that lets some offenders escape jail.

Under law, attacking an emergency worker can mean at least six months in jail.

But the law only applies if the worker is on-duty during the attack.

The paramedic union raised the issue after a stabbing in Melbourne.

The stabbing highlights attacks on emergency services workers.

A 32-year-old man was charged with attempted murder.

The paramedic was on-duty but buying coffee when attacked.

The union secretary says two cases showed a loophole in the law.

The law says 'on-duty' means providing care to a patient.

The union secretary wants the loophole closed.

If a paramedic is not providing care, they are not considered on-duty.

'Senseless and horrific' is how the attack is described.

Ambulance Victoria's CEO wants stronger laws to protect paramedics.

He wants attackers to face the fullest consequences of the law.

The paramedic was in uniform and on-duty but buying coffee.

The government will review the definition of 'on-duty' and make changes if needed.

The attorney-general said the government has been discussing the issue with the union.

The attack was 'senseless and horrific', says the attorney-general.

The government will make changes recommended by the law reform commission.

The police minister says the government will fix the law to protect emergency workers.

Tough sanctions and jail time are promised for attacking emergency workers.

A doctor says the laws need to be re-examined to protect health workers.

The doctor thinks the laws only stop those who wouldn't be violent anyway.

Loopholes need to be tightened.

Reducing weapon availability can also help reduce violence.

Violence in the health system is a growing concern.

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