Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) / Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Ambulance Transport Attendants (ATAs), sometimes called Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), serve a critical role in the growing Non-Emergency Patient Transport (NEPT) sector.

What is an Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA)?

Ambulance transport attendants or ATAs are often part of an ambulance crew. They undertake a similar role to patient transport officers (PTOs), as explained above, but they may be required to perform more advanced patient care.

This could include assessing patients 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.

Employment outlook

Joboutlook.gov.au predicts strong growth in the demand for both Ambulance Transport Attendants and PTOs over the next five year to 2026.

Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) salary

An Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) can earn around $51,000 – $80,000 per year, depending on your level of experience.

What it’s really like to be an Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA)

APC student, Alan, shares what his role covers as an Ambulance Officer in South Australia.

How to become an ATA / EMT

Australian Paramedical College can help you gain the fundamental skills needed to start a rewarding career in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (NEPT).

A Certificate IV in Health Care will allow you to become an Ambulance Transport Attendant (ATA) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) but the Diploma of Emergency Health Care could give you an edge when applying for roles in the industry.

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