History

Celebrating our history

The origins of NSW Ambulance trace back to 1 April 1895 with the establishment of the Civil Ambulance and Transport Brigade – the first recognised ambulance service in the state. Initially operating from a borrowed police station at Sydney’s Railway Square, the service began with just two permanent officers and relied on hand-held stretchers to transport patients.

From these humble beginnings, the Brigade rapidly grew into a respected, community-focused organisation. In 1899, it introduced the first horse-drawn ambulance, and by 1912, the first motor vehicle – both donated by members of the public.

Innovation has long been a hallmark of NSW Ambulance. The organisation pioneered the use of radio-controlled vehicles in 1937, established a dedicated rescue service in 1941, opened a formal training school in 1961, and launched the Air Ambulance in 1967. In 1976, the introduction of advanced life support and intensive care vehicles marked a new era in pre-hospital emergency care.

Fast forward to today

NSW Ambulance remains at the forefront of emergency healthcare, continuing its legacy of innovation and excellence in pre-hospital care.

Recent advancements include the launch of the Virtual Clinical Care Centre, designed to ensure patients receive the most appropriate and timely care. NSW Ambulance also became the first emergency service in NSW to achieve gender parity—a significant milestone reflecting its ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The organisation has also led the way in clinical innovation, pioneering the world-first PRECARE trial and introducing the GoodSAM app. The GoodSAM app alerts trained volunteers to respond to cardiac arrest emergencies before paramedics arrive.

In 2024, NSW Ambulance further enhanced its aeromedical capabilities with the addition of two jets to its Air Ambulance fleet. Its special operations capacity was expanded with the deployment of eight hazardous area rescue ambulances and eight inflatable rescue boats. These will continue to improve response capabilities during natural disasters and challenging environments in the years to come.

The people of NSW can take pride in the ambulance service they have helped shape, and in the dedication of the men and women who continue to uphold its proud tradition of service, innovation and care.

Preserving our legacy

Tucked away on the northern edge of the Riverina region, the town of Temora might seem like an unexpected place to find a vast collection of NSW Ambulance vehicles and equipment.

Yet, it’s home to the NSW Ambulance Museum—an essential hub for preserving and showcasing the rich history of the service. Inside, you’ll discover an impressive array of historic ambulances, equipment and memorabilia that bring the evolution of NSW Ambulance to life.

So next time you’re passing through, make sure to plan a visit. You’ll be amazed by the beautifully restored ambulances and the detailed displays of vintage uniforms, rescue tools, photographs and records. It’s a fascinating insight into the heritage and accomplishments of ambulance services across NSW and the ACT.

NSW Ambulance has been serving the people of NSW for more than 130 years. Our history and heritage can be traced, below.