WA Virtual Security Centre expansion to protect regional health workers

The Government of Western Australia has announced that the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) has expanded its Virtual Security Centre to 60 sites after a successful trial period.

The 24/7 centre uses specialised closed-circuit television (CCTV) technology to enable real-time support for regional hospitals and health services. The increased security is in place to enhance safety for staff and patients and deter antisocial behaviour.

Launched in February 2024, the service was initially rolled out to health services in Bridgetown, Collie, Meekatharra, Hedland, Karratha, Kununurra, Fitzroy Crossing, and Halls Creek.

Following the success of that rollout, the service has now been expanded to 60 sites across rural and remote WA, enhancing real-time monitoring and incident response capabilities to sites in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Mid-West and South West. Some remote nursing posts in the Wheatbelt, Goldfields and Great Southern are also part of the expansion.

The centre has also expanded its workforce, significantly increasing operational capacity and coverage.

The advanced security monitoring builds upon existing security measures such as on-the-ground CCTV and security personnel, duress alarms, and access control systems.

“Violence and aggression directed towards healthcare staff is completely unacceptable,” said Health Minister Meredith Hammat. “Everyone has a right to feel safe at work, particularly health workers who show up every day to help those most in need.

“The WA Country Health Service covers the largest health jurisdiction in the world, over more than 2.55 million square kilometres, and we’re providing greater security for staff, patients and visitors. The service is already enhancing safety in some of WACHS’ smaller sites, with staff at nursing posts reporting greater peace of mind since the system started rolling out.”

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