How to Become a Paramedic in NSW

How to become a paramedic in NSW – NSW Ambulance Service is the largest Ambulance Service in Australia and one of the largest in terms of number of staff and geographical distances in the world. It covers the entire NSW land area and employees over 4000 staff! So, if you want to become a paramedic, NSW Ambulance has a lot to offer in the way of exposure to experiences, training, career paths, and employment conditions.

Become a Paramedic in NSW

So, how do I become a paramedic in NSW?

Based on the current information for Trainee Paramedic Applications in NSW there are three main entry methods for trainee paramedics wishing to gain employment with the Ambualnce Service of NSW.

These include:

One – Train on the job paramedic diploma program. In which student paramedics complete a period of study at the ASNSW Education Centre followed by a 12 month probationary period and a total of 3 year paramedic internship. Don’t worry, you will get paid during the entire process, and at the end of the day will be entitled to a dipoloma in paramedical science. This is a great option for the person who has life experience and has recently decided that they want to change careers, while not be able to or wanting to go back to university full time.

Two – Graduate Paramedic Student Program. In which students have complete a bachelor degree in Paramedical Science or a similar health science degree relating specifically to paramedics. These students then complete an examination/education period before progressing to a 12 month probationary period and qualification of a qualified paramedic. People with non paramedical, but similar health related backgrounds may be able to apply for this recognition of prior learning pathway. People who have backgrounds in nursing, physiotherapy and medicine may wish to apply through this route.

Three – Qualified Paramedic from Interstate. Paramedics who are qualified from an Australian interstate Ambulance Services or Overseas Ambulance Services should apply directly to the Ambulance Service of NSW. As a general rule, Qualified Paramedics with 3 or more years of experience are generally recognised by the Ambulance Service of NSW.

Requirements to Become a Paramedic in NSW

NSW Ambulance Service, like all good health services, seem to change their recruitment requirements regularly. These were the paramedic application requirements as of 2011, but they may change – obviously read the paramedic application package well.

– Over 18 years of age

– Full drivers licence (un-restricted)

– Criminal Record Clearance – Basically, you wont get through if you have conviction against you about child abuse, and any serious criminal offences. If in doubt, give them a call!

– Up to date vacinations based on the health requirements of health care workers – your GP should know what these are (they change quite regularly too).

– Year 12 or above completion.

On top of these, you will have to pass a medical/fitness test (not too hard), an aptitude test, and a basic skills test (maths, reading, writing) and you will probably have to pass a basic driving test.

Good luck on becoming a paramedic in NSW

Remember, they are regularly recruiting, so if you don’t get through the first time, give it another go.

This website acknowledges that it has no affiliation with the Ambulance Service of NSW and that it is only providing information on how to become a paramedic in NSW for prospective trainee paramedics or persons wanting to know how to become a paramedic in NSW.