More than 100 primary care staff have now strengthened their careers and their practices through the Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting (HLT47715), with the latest cohort of graduates celebrating successful completion of the qualification in 2025.
Since its introduction in 2018, the qualification has been strongly supported by Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN), which has funded 106 student scholarships delivered by UNE Partnerships.
Designed to upskill medical receptionists and administrative staff, the Certificate IV enables graduates to perform delegated clinical tasks under indirect supervision, helping to reduce pressure on doctors and nurses while improving patient flow and team efficiency in general practice.
Dr Alison Koschel, HNECC PHN Executive Manager Primary Care Workforce and Access, who supports the program, said the qualification continues to deliver tangible benefits for both staff and practices.
“This program was developed in direct response to workforce pressures in primary care, and the outcomes over the past seven years speak for themselves,” Dr Koschel said.
“By investing in the skills of administrative staff, we’re creating a more flexible, capable workforce, supporting clinicians to work at the top of their scope, and opening up genuine career pathways within general practice.”
Following the success of the 31, 2025 graduates, HNECC PHN is now offering a new round of funded places for the Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting.
The nationally recognised qualification includes 23 units of competency delivered over 18–24 months and combines online learning with face-to-face First Aid and clinical training. Students can expect to commit approximately 15 hours per week to self-directed study.
Alison Tattersall, HNECC PHN Senior Manager Primary Care Workforce and Access, said the sustained success of the program demonstrates the value of growing the workforce from within.
“Workforce sustainability in primary care isn’t just about recruiting new clinicians — it’s also about strengthening and retaining the skilled people already working in our practices,” Tattersall said.
“The Medical Practice Assistant model builds capacity within practices, enhances team-based care, and provides a clear professional development pathway for administrative staff who want to expand their role.”
Through a combination of government funding and PHN-funded scholarships, successful applicants will pay a maximum of $500 towards the total course cost (terms and conditions apply).
Scholarships are limited and highly competitive.
Health receptionists and administrators working in medical settings who are ready to expand into clinical support roles are encouraged to submit their Expressions of Interest via the forms below.
Want to know more?
Two online information sessions delving into the course requirements and how practices can utilise Medical Practice Assistants in their business, will be held later this month on February 24 (Sessin 1) and February 26 (Session 2).