Mackay’s ambulance crews are set to receive a major boost in emergency care, with the arrival of cutting-edge defibrillator technology designed to save more lives.
As part of the Queensland Government’s record $1 billion Health Budget for the Queensland Ambulance Service, $10 million has been dedicated to the Defibrillator Replacement Program. This investment will see 1,400 upgraded ZOLL X Series Advanced Defibrillators rolled out across the state, including right here in Mackay.
The new devices, expected to be in service by 30 September, will allow paramedics to instantly transmit ECG readings to Brisbane-based specialists via the QAS Consult Line. This direct link gives regional crews access to real-time expert advice, helping overcome distance barriers and ensuring patients in critical condition receive faster, more effective treatment.
Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, said the investment would make a real difference to frontline emergency response in the region.
“This is about giving our Mackay paramedics the very best tools to save lives,” Mr Dalton said.
“Whether you live in the heart of Mackay or a rural property outside town, you deserve world-class healthcare — and that’s exactly what the Crisafulli Government is delivering. These new defibrillators will help our ambos make critical, life-saving decisions in seconds.”
Already, more than 1,300 units have been deployed across the state, with all frontline paramedics to receive face-to-face training to confidently operate the upgraded equipment.
Queensland Ambulance Service Medical Director, Dr Daniel Bodnar, said the technology is a game-changer, especially for regional crews.
“Our rural paramedics often work without specialist back-up, so being able to share patient data instantly with our clinical teams means faster, better care,” Dr Bodnar said.
The new devices not only monitor heart rhythms, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiration rates, but also integrate advanced data-sharing capabilities — ensuring Mackay patients can receive specialist-level care no matter where they are.
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