Triple Zero expands team amid surge in emergency calls

TRIPLE Zero Victoria will recruit 50 additional call-takers and dispatchers as demand for emergency assistance continues to rise across the state.

The $25 million Victorian government spending comes as Triple Zero Victoria (TZV) fields more than three million calls in the past year — an increase of 7.3 per cent.

Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward made the announcement during a visit to TZV’s Burwood East State Emergency Communications Centre.

The new roles will help ensure support is available around the clock for people calling 000, with staff working 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Three staff members were also recognised during the minister’s visit for 30 years of service. Each received a signed letter and frame from the minister.

“We’re recruiting more call-takers to ensure that every Victorian gets the support they need — when they need it,” Ward said.

“This is a dynamic, skilled and rewarding career and we encourage Victorians to take up the opportunity to work with the amazing team at TZV.”

TZV operates call-taking and dispatch services from Burwood East, Ballarat and Williams Landing, and managed close to 2.6 million emergency service dispatches last year.

It also co-ordinates non-emergency fire and ambulance responses, including burn-offs and patient transport.

“Special people do this work — they are always calm under pressure and dedicated to helping the community,” TZV chief executive Deb Abbott said.

“To our dedicated staff who have spent thirty years providing a vital public service — you are the quiet heroes behind every emergency response.”