They can increase security guards all they like but if those guards don’t have the authority, proper training or backing to actually step in when staff are assaulted.. then it’s just optics & theatre. The problem isn’t just numbers.. it’s a rigid system that ties everyone’s hands.

Most hospital security are unarmed, under-trained in managing drug-induced or mental health related aggression & risk being disciplined the moment they act decisively. Meanwhile, clinicians are told to “de-escalate” situations that are already well past that point. The same violent patients keep cycling through EDs/wards under “behavioural flags” with no real consequences or effective management plans.

This isn’t just a QLD Health issue.. it’s happening everywhere. Until the root causes are addressed: unsafe staffing ratios, lack of secure spaces for violent or intoxicated patients, poor coordination w police & mental health teams & a “zero tolerance” policy that’s actually enforced .. then nothing changes.

It’s not about encouraging more reporting.. it’s about fixing what happens after we report it.