TAFE NSW
4 to 12 months
Become a health services assistant and support nurses in acute care environments. This nationally recognised Certificate III combines classroom learning with 80+ hours of practical work placement, preparing you for roles in patient care and emergency response.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. However, you should have an interest in helping people, the ability to work independently and in a team, good organisation and time management skills, and good verbal and written communication skills. Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills at Year 10 level are recommended. You must be able to perform two minutes of uninterrupted CPR on adult and infant manikins and respond to emergencies. You'll need to obtain a Working with Children Check, Australian National Police Record Check, NDIS Worker Check, and complete vaccination and health screenings.
The course comprises 15 units of competency including core units in workplace health and safety, medical terminology, personal work priorities, healthy body systems, health and community service communication, diversity, and infection prevention and control. Specialty units cover acute care nursing assistance, patient movement, behaviour management, emergency response, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, food safety, medical device handling, oral hygiene, client support, palliative care, dementia support, and work with diverse populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness.
TAFE NSW is a leading registered training organisation (RTO 90003) offering nationally accredited qualifications across multiple campuses. With flexible study options including full-time, part-time, on-campus, hybrid, and workplace-based learning, TAFE NSW tailors courses to meet local community needs. The institution provides comprehensive support services including disability support, language and literacy assistance, counselling, and career guidance to ensure student success.
Graduates progress to roles such as health service assistant, personal care assistant, nursing assistant, and patient support assistant in hospitals, aged care facilities, disability services, and community health settings. The qualification provides a pathway to further study including Certificate IV in Ageing Support, Certificate IV in Mental Health, Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice, and Diploma of Nursing, enabling career advancement in the healthcare sector.