Leeton shire’s paramedics are among many across NSW that participated in their own stance this week against the state government’s reduction of their death and disability payments. 

Staff and the Health Services Union have said those payments have been slashed and will do little to help a paramedic that is injured on the job or, if the worst were to happen, their families if they were to pass away. 

As a result, paramedics in Leeton were among thousands across the state that took up liquid chalk to write slogans such as “most trusted, least protection” and “we had your back Mr Baird, why don’t you have ours” on ambulances. 

Leeton union representative Liam Ward said there were numerous concerns regarding the payments. 

“We’ve got no protection on the job,” he said. 

“Other emergency services are more protected … we’re just asking for what we think is fair. 

“Sometimes you’re going into a job blind. 

“You don’t know what situation you’re walking into. 

“Sometimes it’s a dangerous situation and you’re not protected. 

“What if something were to happen? 

“I’ve got three kids at school. Having these payments reduced to what they have been is just ridiculous.”

Mr Ward said paramedics loved their job, but said the reductions would mean some would be hesitant when attending a serious incident, particularly in cases in regional areas where sometimes paramedics respond to calls on their own. 

“We give so much to our jobs because we want to and we love what we do, but we need the proper insurance and cover to do it,” he said. 

“We’re never not going to attend a job, no matter how big or small, but we want to know we’re protected. I think that’s something the government is taking advantage of.”