Binge drinking and anti-social behaviour have resulted in Hobsons Bay recording one of the biggest jumps in Melbourne alcohol-related ambulance call-outs since 2009.
Figures released by the Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre show there were 186 calls in the 2011-12 financial year, up 69 per cent from 110 the previous financial year.
Hobsons Bay recorded the sixth-highest increase in Melbourne. Maribyrnong had the lowest increase: up 15 per cent from 190 to 219.
State Williamstown MP and opposition parliamentary secretary for health Wade Noonan said the figures for Hobsons Bay were part of a Melbourne-wide trend.
“This significant rise in alcohol-related call-outs is adding more pressure to an already stressed ambulance service.
“Most disturbingly, the increase in alcohol- and drug-related ambulance attendances is leading to some serious incidents involving our respected paramedics, including assaults and threats of violence.”
