What is a First Responder?
A First Responder is an individual who provides basic-to-advanced first aid services until further support arrives on-scene. As their position title suggests, First Responders generally are the first on-scene, providing vital early intervention, and in some cases, patient transport to hospital.
First Responders work both within the private and public sectors, but their titles can vary based on the individuals residing state/territory. Other titles may be Ambulance Community Officers (ACOs), Community First Responders or Advanced First Responders.
Key skills of a First Responder
Working as a First Responder is an extremely important and fulfilling position. Not only is it a great entry-level position in emergency and non-emergency healthcare, but it also allows you to make a difference in the lives of those you treat. Here are some of the key responsibilities within the position:
- Attend public events where accidents may occur
- Assess the health of patients and need for assistance
- Deliver high standards of patient care and customer service
- Provide basic-to-advance first aid where needed
First Responder salary
In Australia, a First Responder can earn an average salary of $76,000, with Queensland and Victoria offering salaries up to $97,000 and $85,000 respectively*.
*Source: Indeed (May, 2024)
Possible employers
By choosing APC, you’ll gain access to APC’s Industry Partners who employ for postions such as First Responders across Australia. Discover your potential future employer below:
Become a qualified Advanced First Responder
How to become a First Responder in Australia
Australian Paramedical College (APC) can give you the foundational knowledge and practical skills you need to become an Advanced First Responder within a 12-18 month timeframe.
Depending on your residing location, and preferred employer, First Responders are required to hold qualifications within First Aid and CPR. For those who are keen to step into Advanced First Responder positions, a HLT41120 – Certificate IV in Health Care is a great place to start, but the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care can give you a more competitive edge when applying for positions within the industry.
To learn more about these courses, click the button below.
Learn moreFirst Responder upskills and thrives with APC
Meet Trudy, an APC student from NSW, studying the HLT51015 – Diploma of Paramedical Science (since superseded by the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care).
Already working within emergency services, Trudy wanted to expand her skillsets to ‘do more’ for her community, specifically within a First Responder capacity.
First Responder skillet and qualities
Empathy & patient care
First Responders need to demonstrate a high level of compassion and understanding on a day-to-day basis for patients in need
Collaborative
Values teamwork and effectively collaborates with other ambulance services, hospital staff and the local community when assisting with patient transfers
