What is an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)?
An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a healthcare provider who aids in emergency medical situations by evaluating patients’ conditions, recording treatment, and operating ambulances. They serve as the primary emergency responders and serve as the backbone of advanced emergency medical services.
EMT proficiency is generally classified into two levels: Basic EMT and Advanced EMT (also known as EMT Intermediate).
Key responsibilities include:
- Responding to accident scenes or incidents, evaluating the required level of care, and requesting additional assistance if necessary
- Utilising life-saving techniques such as CPR, wound management, and pain relief
- Transporting patients to medical facilities and delivering care on the way
- Comprehending any legal ramifications of administering medical care and treatment
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) salary
In Australia, an EMT can earn a base salary of approximately $120,000 or more per year, depending on an individual’s level of experience.* For those residing in New Zealand, a salary of over $85,000 could be expected through our partner, Hato Hone St John*
Sources: *Indeed (April, 2024) and Hato Hone St John (May, 2024)
How to become an EMT in Australia and New Zealand
APC is proud to offer an EMT career pathway for those interested in pursuing a career in either Australia or New Zealand.
Become an EMT in Australia
In Australia, the requirements vary by state, however generally speaking the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care could give you an edge when applying for roles in the industry.
Become an EMT in New Zealand
Exclusive to our collaboration with Hato Hone St John and Pro+Med New Zealand Ltd, graduates of the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care offered by APC can obtain a dual-country qualification, opening employment opportunities in vacant EMT positions across New Zealand.
Start Your Journey to Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician
The HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care is a nationally recognised qualification that equips you with the essential skills to work as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in Australia. Through a mix of flexible online study, practical workshops, and real-world clinical placements, you will learn how to deliver pre-hospital emergency care, assist paramedics, and manage patients in urgent situations.
Graduates of this course are job-ready for roles such as patient transport officer, event medic, or first responder. For many students, it also serves as a stepping stone toward advanced study, including the Diploma of Emergency Health Care and paramedic registration pathways.
Enrol today with Australian Paramedical College and take the first step toward a rewarding career in pre-hospital emergency health care.
EMT continues to upskill and thrive with APC
Meet Rachel, APC student from WA, studying the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care.
Rachel was keen to build her knowledge and skillset even further as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) so chose APC to pursue her goals.
Rachel completed her Clinical Placement through APC’s Industry Partner, St John Ambulance, and not only did she absolutely love the experience, but it has also led to employment as a result.
EMT skillset and qualities
Collaborative
Values teamwork and effectively collaborates with other ambulance services, hospital staff and the local community when assisting with patient transfers
Effective decision making
Empathy & patient care
EMTs need to demonstrate a high level of compassion and understanding on a day-to-day basis for patients in need
