30 years of dedication, innovation and leadership
March 12, 2025in News
Whether he is meeting the queen or a patient in need, Paul James’s passion for patient care and commitment to the community shines through.
Paul, the Ambulance Victoria (AV) Acting Gippsland Director of Regional and Clinical Operations, joined the South-East Ambulance Service in 1995 following a stint in medical equipment marketing.
Inspired by his experiences as an Ambulance Community Officer, he made the leap into paramedicine eager to make a real difference on the frontline.
Since then, Paul has witnessed and been part of some significant changes in the profession.
“Back then, we worked out of Ford F150 wagons, carrying multiple patients in a single ambulance,” Paul said.
“Training was different too. We attended the Ambulance Officers Training College for three years before becoming qualified.
“Today’s paramedics graduate with a degree, equipped with advanced skills and technology to support their work.”
Throughout his career, Paul has been instrumental in implementing key innovations and evolving clinical care standards and digital patient care records.
He also played a crucial role in major emergencies, including the 2009 Victorian bushfires, 2014 Hazelwood mine fire and 2019–20 East Gippsland bushfires.
Beyond emergency response, Paul’s leadership has influenced the development of specialist programs such as wilderness and aquatic response, as well as community health initiatives like assessment centres established during the Hazelwood coal fire to support affected residents.
Paul’s commitment to helping others extends beyond Ambulance Victoria. A volunteer with Life Saving Victoria since the age of 13, he has dedicated countless hours to ensuring the safety of beachgoers and training future lifesavers, including six years as President.
His outstanding contributions to lifesaving and community service were recognised when he was selected to meet the Queen, an honour that underscores his lifelong dedication to protecting and supporting others.
Paul James meets the Queen
“I’ve always believed in being proactive rather than reactive. Whether it’s mentoring new paramedics or developing new initiatives, I want to contribute to meaningful change that improves patient care,” Paul said.
Emphasising passion and resilience, Paul said the job was incredibly rewarding.
“You need to be driven by the desire to help people. At the end of the day, it’s about being there for patients during some of the most critical moments of their lives.”
As he marks his milestone in the service, Paul remains focused on the future of paramedicine. From telemedicine to emerging technology such as portable X-rays and even jetpacks for wilderness responders, he sees an exciting path ahead.
“I’ve been proud to make a difference and I know the next generation of paramedics will continue to build on the work we’ve done. It’s about giving back to the community we live in and ensuring the best care for patients.”