The Victorian Government has announced a new intake of Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance interns, as part of its push to strengthen frontline emergency services across the state.
The Minister for Ambulance Services, Mary-Anne Thomas, met the first cohort of 24 MICA intern paramedics for 2026, who are preparing to begin an intensive training pathway before moving into advanced on road roles.
All recruits are experienced Advanced Life Support paramedics with at least two years of full time operational experience. They will undertake a six week bridging course focused on complex clinical scenarios including respiratory and cardiac emergencies, paediatric and obstetric cases, as well as sessions covering welfare, wellbeing, pharmacy and leadership.
After completing the course, the interns will enter an 18 month supervised placement alongside qualified MICA paramedics. The training is designed to prepare them to manage high acuity cases independently or in pairs, performing advanced procedures such as airway management, treatment of head and chest trauma, and responding to serious cardiac incidents.
Once fully trained, the new MICA paramedics will be deployed to communities including Ringwood, Hampton Park, Ravenhall, Tarneit, Rosebud, Campbellfield, Bundoora, Morwell, Warrnambool, Ballarat and Wodonga.
The latest intake brings the number of MICA interns currently progressing through the program to 96, reflecting a broader expansion of specialist ambulance capacity across Victoria.
According to the government, more than $2 billion has been invested in ambulance services in recent years, with the workforce expanded by over 50 per cent and 46 new or upgraded ambulance stations delivered. The state has also introduced Australia’s first Paramedic Practitioners as part of its efforts to ease pressure on hospitals and improve patient outcomes.
Ms Thomas said MICA paramedics are among the most highly trained emergency clinicians in the world and play a vital role in delivering advanced care before patients reach hospital. She said continued investment would help ensure Victorians receive timely, expert treatment when facing life threatening emergencies.
The announcement comes amid ongoing political debate over health funding, with the government arguing sustained investment is needed to maintain and grow frontline services. Opposition figures have raised concerns about broader budget pressures, setting the stage for further discussion about priorities in the lead up to the next state election.
For patients experiencing critical illness or injury, the practical impact will be felt on the road, where advanced skills and rapid response can make the difference in the most urgent moments.
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