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Course Code: HLT40221
Location: 220 Franklin Street, Adelaide, 5000
Duration: 18 months

What this qualification is for

The HLT40221 Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice is designed for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people seeking to work in primary health care roles. Graduates deliver culturally safe health services, assist with clinical care, and provide health promotion across diverse settings, including urban, rural, and remote communities. This qualification prepares students to work under limited supervision, contributing meaningfully to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and communities.

Why Study

Build core health service skills

Develop knowledge and practical skills to deliver primary health care services that are culturally safe, effective, and aligned with professional standards.

Deliver culturally safe care

Strengthen your ability to practise with respect for culture, community, and identity, making informed decisions and following established policies and procedures.

Work effectively in health settings

Gain capability to work across a range of health care environments, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations and public and private health services.

Learn from experienced professionals

Be supported by Aboriginal clinical educators and allied health professionals who provide culturally relevant guidance, practical insights, and a supportive learning environment.

Create pathways to employment

Build a foundation for employment in primary health care and take the next step toward improving the health and wellbeing of your community.

Course Description

This qualification provides a pathway to work in a variety of health care settings, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations, as well as the public and private health sectors.

This qualification provides a pathway to work in a variety of health care settings, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations, as well as the public and private health sectors. The qualification is delivered as full-time study over 18 months, with face-to-face workshops, self-directed study, and workplace-based learning. Students must complete supervised practice in a primary health care setting and demonstrate competency through applied skills and assessments. 

Accreditation & Registration

  • AHCSA holds current Approved Program of Study accreditation with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for this qualification.
  • Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practice Board of Australia (ATSIHPBA), enabling them to become registered Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners.
  • Students enrolled in this program are registered with the Board under the National Law. More information on student registration can be found on the AHPRA website.
  • Under limited circumstances, registered students may be subject to mandatory notifications. Prospective students should review AHPRA’s Guidelines for Mandatory Notifications about registered students.

Course Entry Requirements

Applicants must:
  • Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Complete a Learning, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) assessment and Pre-Enrolment Interview.
  • Be employed or able to volunteer in relevant health roles to complete workplace-based assessments.
  • Have basic digital literacy (Microsoft Office, internet skills).
Additional Requirements:

Before clinical placement, applicants must provide:

  • A valid National Police Clearance.
  • A current Working with Children Check (WWCC).
  • Evidence of required vaccinations, including influenza and COVID-19.

Units of Competency

Core Units

  • HLTAWOR002 Work in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander primary health care
  • HLTAADV002 Support the rights and needs of clients
  • CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically
  • HLTINF006 Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control
  • HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety
  • CHCCOM002 Use communication to build relationships
  • HLTAWOR003 Use and promote reflective practice in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander primary health care
  • HLTAWOR004 Provide support to address social and cultural determinants of client and community health
  • HLTAHPR007 Promote lifestyle change
  • HLTAHCS004 Complete comprehensive physical health assessments
  • HLTASEW002 Assess and support the social and emotional wellbeing of clients
  • HLTAHCS006 Implement complex health care plans
  • HLTAMED002 Support the safe use of medications
  • HLTAMED003 Administer medications

Elective Units

  • CHCAOD004 Assess needs of clients with alcohol and other drugs issues
  • CHCAOD005 Provide alcohol and other drugs withdrawal services
  • HLTASXH001 Promote men’s sexual health (Men’s Stream)
  • HLTAHPR002 Promote awareness and early detection of cancer to men (Men’s Stream)
  • HLTASXH002 Promote women’s sexual health (Women’s Stream)
  • HLTAHPR003 Promote awareness and early detection of cancer to women (Women’s Stream)
  • HLTAID011 Provide First Aid

Course Start Dates

Course Dates to be supplied as soon as available.

Work Placement

Students undertake supervised practice in a primary health care setting as part of their training, supplemented by theoretical and practical application and assessments. All students are expected to complete a minimum of 500 hours (14 weeks full-time equivalent) of clinical practice within the scope of their role as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner Trainee/Student. Commitment to self-directed learning, workplace evidence, and practical workshops is essential for competency.

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