The Health Services Union has urged the community to join the fight against alcohol violence. Source: AAP
ASSAULTS against paramedics will be pursued in the courts after NSW Ambulance Service declared zero tolerance of violence against its staff.
A paramedic was allegedly assaulted on Sydney's George St in the early hours of Sunday as she came to the aid of an intoxicated 21-year-old man.
The ambulance officer was allegedly punched, kicked and pushed by the man.
"We will absolutely pursue you through the legal system if you attack our paramedics," NSW Ambulance Inspector Ian Johns told reporters in Sydney.
"It is absolutely not on."
Insp Johns said assaults against paramedics increased from 89 in 2012 to more than 133 in 2013.
He agreed with calls from the Health Services Union to improve community awareness about alcohol and violence.
"We all have a responsibility in this," Insp Johns said.
"Anything our community organisations can do is welcome."
He said there was a time in the state when paramedics were considered off limits.
Recalling a bikie battle in the 1980s, Insp Johns said those involved understood paramedics were there to help.
The paramedic allegedly assaulted on Sunday was treated in hospital for her injuries and is now at home resting.
