CDU’s first Bachelor of Paramedicine students to join St John NT

Charles Darwin University’s first ever cohort of paramedic students is nearly ready to swap simulations for saving real lives. Here’s why Territory-trained medics are crucial.

Charles Darwin University’s first ever paramedics to learn lifesaving frontline skills are just about ready to join the workforce.

The first cohort of CDU paramedicine students is set to finish their studies at the end of this year, with 10 on track to officially graduate in May.

After launching in 2021, close to 80 students have joined the three-year course developed in partnership with St John Ambulance NT.

St John NT operations manager Andrew Thomas said it was crucial to give Territorians the chance to become a paramedic in their home jurisdiction.

“Previously, we’ve relied on those that have completed their degrees and moving from other states to come to the Territory and complete their internship,” he said.

St John's NT Operations Manager Andrew Thomas. Picture: Adnan Reza

“We’ve had some really great people but there’s always that draw to go back to their home, their family.

“Whereas with the people here that hopefully are learning local and doing their placements local with us, that they’ll stay local.”

All students are required to undertake three placements with St John Ambulance, totalling 600 hours, to become qualified.

The CDU training ground comes complete with a simulated ambulance and the guidance of practising paramedics, while an aeromedical retrieval unit – the first of its kind in Australia – is being developed for next year’s students.

Student Tom Smith, who grew up in Darwin, said he planned to stay in the Territory after graduating the course and the following one-year St John internship.

The first cohort of 10 students will soon complete their studies in Charles Darwin University's new Bachelor of Paramedicine program. Picture: Adnan Reza

“For placements we can go in Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs … it provides us a good opportunity to get on the road and find out what the job is really like,” he said.

Mr Thomas said it was a rewarding career where no two days were the same.

“It’s really a profession where you can have a major impact on people when they’re having a really bad day, (on) how you can then support them,” he said.

CDU Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman said the course was one part of the university’s plan to be able to provide all the healthcare career options for Northern Territory students.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said the course would help “fill a critical gap”.

“The training these students are receiving are world-class, with access to simulation real life settings and time out on the field,” she said.

Applications for CDU’s Bachelor of Paramedicine are open for 2024.