How old to become a paramedic in Australia

Age is not necessarily a restraint for younger persons attempting to gain employment as a paramedic in Australia. However, in virtually all our Ambulance Services, paramedics must obtain a full (un-provisional) drivers licence prior to gaining employment. Because the age limit for gaining a full drivers licence is either 18 or 21 in most states of Australia, this means that most people must, at the very minimum be at least 18 or 21 to gain employment as a paramedic in Australia.

Can I join earlier, and just treat the patients and not drive? No, in Australia paramedics are both treating officers and drivers.

Realistically speaking, most people who join an Ambulance Service in Australia are about 25 years or older (this does not mean that it is impossible for you to become a paramedic if you are younger). This is because, employment as a paramedic is very competitive, and consequently, most people who are successful either have prior experience (either in a similar field such as nursing, or another field) or have tertiary qualifications. However, I have met people who did brilliantly at the exams and interviewed well enough to get in as young as 21.

If you’re interested in becoming a paramedic – I thoroughly recommend it, its the best job in the world.