- Published:
- Wednesday 31 December 2025 at 1:55 pm
As Victorians get ready to welcome in 2025, Ambulance Victoria is reminding everyone to celebrate safely so the new year does not begin in the back of an ambulance.
New Year’s Eve is consistently one of the busiest nights of the year for paramedics, with increased demand linked to alcohol, drugs, risk taking behaviour and heat related illness.
Ambulance Victoria’s Manager for Emergency Management Kathryn Haden said while we have detailed plans in place and extra resources on duty, personal responsibility plays a key role in keeping the community safe.
“We want people to enjoy their celebrations and welcome the New Year in style, not in an ambulance,” Ms Haden said.
“If you are drinking alcohol, do so in moderation, drink plenty of water and look out for the people around you. Every year we respond to serious injuries and illnesses that could have been prevented.”
Ms Haden also urged the community to stay away from illegal fireworks.
“Illegal fireworks are extremely dangerous and can cause severe burns, eye injuries and traumatic injuries. It is simply not worth the risk,” she said.
With warm conditions forecast across parts of the state, Victorians are also reminded to stay hydrated, take breaks from the heat and keep a close eye on children, older people and anyone with medical conditions.
“If you are heading to the beach, river or pool, never swim alone and never swim after drinking alcohol. Always supervise children around water,” Ms Haden said.
Ambulance Victoria is also asking the community to save paramedics for emergencies only.
“Calling an ambulance will not get you seen faster in hospital. If your health concern is not life threatening this New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, services such as the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and urgent care clinics remain open and are a good place to seek care,” Ms Haden said.
“We also ask everyone to treat paramedics and emergency workers with respect. For our crews to provide care, they need a safe and supportive environment.”
Ambulance Victoria wishes everyone a safe and happy New Year and a positive start to 2026.
Alternative care options over the New Year period
• Victorian Virtual Emergency Department
Free, online urgent care for non-life threatening conditions
• Urgent Care Clinics
GP led care for urgent but non-emergency health issues
Find your nearest clinic at
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/urgent-care-clinics
• NURSE ON CALL
Free health advice from a registered nurse, 24 hours a day
Phone 1300 60 60 24
Updated