Note: This article was first published in 2014. New information has been added since.
At Australian Paramedical College we receive literally hundreds of questions from people just like you who are thinking about becoming a Paramedic. Although our team of highly-trained consultants as well as our on-staff trainers and educators cannot answer which is the best way to complete the course, because everyone is different. What works for one person may not work for another. However, here is an overview typical questions.
First, let’s look at the traditional Paramedic education pathway.
To be a Paramedic, the requirement used to be:
Having attained the above, you could work anywhere in Australia with a Private Ambulance Service, or private sector paramedical services provider.
In late 2018, the State Ambulance Services transitioned from vocational education and training to making a university degree the standard qualification to become a paramedic. Which means, to work as a Paramedic with a State Ambulance Service, only those who possess a Bachelor degree in the field of paramedic health science from an Australian or New Zealand tertiary institution can be considered for employment. However, there are still Private Ambulance Services that only require a Certificate IV or Diploma of Paramedical Science/Diploma of Emergency Health care.
There are a number of private paramedical service providers offering emergency service worker position to various sectors throughout Australia. These can be in sectors such as mining, oil & gas, construction, industrial projects, amusement and entertainment, leisure and recreation.
In addition, organisers of activities will hire appropriately trained and qualified personnel to attend events that are regarded as high-risk. Events such as motorsports, film and TV productions, music festivals, concerts and major sporting events are typical.
Gaining Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector qualifications and working in the Private Sector means you are gaining valuable experience along the way. You can also use your existing qualifications and life skills to apply to university. You could also qualify for credits towards the degree (subject to individual university agreements).
Now that you possess some paramedical knowledge, the next step is to determine what’s right for you. When at school, were you the one who could easily complete homework and assignments or did you need your teacher to help you along the way? As the majority of the Australian Paramedical College courses are delivered online, being motivated and self-disciplined will allow you to complete the course in your spare time.
The first course you could do is the HLT41120 – Certificate IV in Health Care or the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care (formerly known as the HLT51015 – Diploma of Paramedical Science) which have no entry requirements; meaning you can enrol today and start studying straight away!
For the practical side of the course, you will be able to book a date that suits your schedule, to take part in the practical workshops with other students who are also completing the course.
To make learning easier, Australian Paramedical College’s expert trainers possess many years of real-life experience and know what it is like when you begin a pathway to becoming a paramedic or private sector medic.
Becoming a Paramedic is about so much more than lights and sirens and rushing to help someone in need. Paramedic’s perform clinical procedures, administer drugs, maintain patient records and transport patients to hospitals safely. Ambulance Paramedics are also very competent drivers and will always be alert and safe as they traverse busy roads and traffic. You must be able to think clearly, act quickly, possess a calm manner and have the ability to reassure patients and handle stressful situations almost every day. If you would like to discuss our courses in more detail, do not hesitate to contact us on 1300 377 741, or get in touch with us via email.