What is an Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA)?
Ambulance Transport Attendants (ATAs) are often part of an ambulance crew. They undertake a similar role to Patient Transport Officers (PTOs) but can be required to perform more advanced patient care at times. This includes, but is not limited to, assessing a patient’s health, cardiac rhythm monitoring and basic life support.
Typical duties of an Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA)
- Transport patients for specialist treatment
- Attend public events where accidents may occur
- Ensure ambulances are maintained and stocked with medical supplies
- Assess the health of patients and need for assistance
- Prepare reports on patients’ injuries and treatment
- Administers drugs according to protocol
- Resuscitate patients and operate life-support equipment
Job Growth and Future Opportunities for ATA Roles
Strong growth has been predicted for ATA roles between 2021 to 2026, with an estimated 8.4% or 1,600 increase in jobs during this period.*
Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) Salary
An Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) can earn between $73,000 – $114,000* per year, depending on an individual’s level of experience.
*World Salaries (2024)
How to Become an ATA
At Australian Paramedical College (APC), you’ll gain the nationally recognised skills and qualifications needed to begin your career in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (NEPT).
Following the introduction of Victoria’s updated Non-Emergency Patient Transport Regulations, the pathway to becoming an Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) is more clearly defined. In Victoria, the HLT51020 Diploma of Emergency Health Care is the qualification pathway for those seeking to work as an ATA, providing the advanced clinical knowledge and practical skills required to care for patients with higher support needs during transport.
For those looking to enter the patient transport sector, the HLT31120 Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport and other patient transport-focused qualifications are designed to support Patient Transport Officer roles. These pathways develop essential skills in safe patient movement, communication, infection control, and providing appropriate support for patients requiring non-emergency transport.
Understanding the difference between patient transport and ATA pathways can help you choose the right qualification for your career goals. Whether you’re starting your healthcare journey, changing careers, or building on existing experience, APC’s course guide can help you explore the training pathway that best aligns with the type of role you want to pursue.
Studying with APC
Studying with APC offers a flexible, self-paced online learning experience combined with in-person clinical workshops, giving you the practical skills to succeed in the field. APC provides access to a network of industry partners for clinical placements, helping you gain hands-on experience while you study.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your qualifications, APC’s supportive learning environment and nationally recognised courses set you on the path to a fulfilling career as an Ambulance Transport Attendant.
Hear what it’s like to be an ATA
APC student, Alan, shares what his role covers as an Ambulance Officer in South Australia.
From hearing about the different levels of the role to the types of duties and call-outs that can be expected on shift, check out this video to learn more and see if it interests you as a career pathway.
ATA skillset and qualities
Collaborative
Values teamwork and effectively collaborates with other emergency services, hospital staff and the local community when assisting with patient transfers
Strong interpersonal skills
Empathy & patient care
ATAs need to demonstrate a high level of compassion and understanding on a day-to-day basis for patients in need
To become an ATA, you need the HLT51020 Diploma of Emergency Health Care in Victoria under the new regulations (2026) and HLT41120 Certificate IV in Health Care in other states. This qualification provides the skills necessary to work in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (NEPT).
After becoming an ATA, you can explore roles like Event Medic, Patient Transport Officer, or pursue further studies to advance your career in emergency healthcare.
Yes, APC partners with over 100 organisations across Australia, offering students opportunities to gain hands-on experience during their clinical placements.
Yes, APC partners with over 100 organisations across Australia, offering students opportunities to gain hands-on experience during their clinical placements.
Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) vs Paramedic
Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA):
- Provides non-emergency patient transport.
- Focuses on patient care during transfers between facilities.
- Requires a Diploma in Emergency Health Care.
Paramedic:
- Responds to emergency situations.
- Provides advanced medical care in high-pressure environments.
- Requires university study (Bachelor of Paramedicine) – Good news! Diploma can be used as a pathway to University if you then decide to become a Paramedic.
