The world-first fleet of vehicles – known as Hazardous Area Rescue Ambulances – are specifically built to respond to health emergencies during natural disasters.

Designed to traverse extreme terrain, HARAs can navigate flood waters of up to 1.2 metres. The inclusion of a burn-over crew protection system also allows the Mercedes-Benz Unimog vehicles to operate through intense bushfires.

“I’m so pleased our ambulance service will be the first in the world to get these vehicles,” minister for health Ryan Park said.

Purposely modified by NSW Ambulance, the 4WD HARAs are equipped with the latest technology and come with enhanced safety features including a reinforced exoskeleton to protect paramedics and patients from falling trees.

“These high-tech vehicles will mean our world-class clinicians will be even better prepared for any scenario they face – which could include floods or bushfires,” Park said.

Operated by special operations medics, the fleet of eight HARAs will be deployed over the coming months and strategically based at rescue stations in Tamworth, Rutherford, Bomaderry, Cowra, and Wagga Wagga.

“Once they’re rolled out these vehicles will be an invaluable addition to NSW Ambulance,” Park said.

Labor member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said the innovative vehicles were long overdue but appreciated. “They will ensure communities across Heathcote with our challenging landscape and right across NSW receive world-class care and will be an invaluable resource during natural disasters.”