Graduate Paramedics begin their careers in Tasmania

Ambulance Tasmania has welcomed a new cohort of Graduate Paramedics who are set to strengthen emergency response capabilities across the state.

Fifteen new graduate paramedics have joined Ambulance Tasmania, bringing fresh skills, experience, and enthusiasm to the service.

Their backgrounds are as diverse as their reasons for choosing this path -- some come from nursing, others from youth work or volunteer services, and even aviation. 

Over the coming weeks, they will complete their induction before stepping into operational roles, supported by experienced paramedics who will mentor them through the transition.

With five based in the South, six in the North, and four in the North West, these recruits are here to strengthen frontline care across Tasmania.

Ambulance Tasmania Director of Operations, Michelle Baxter welcomed the graduates and acknowledged the important work ahead. 

“These new Graduate Paramedics are stepping into a vital role that makes a real difference in the lives of Tasmanians every day,” she said.

"Over the next few weeks, they will be immersed in hands-on training and mentorship to ensure they are well-prepared and supported to deliver emergency care in the community.

“I warmly welcome this group to the team as we continue to actively recruit additional paramedics to strengthen our service.”

For Reinhard, a former fixed-wing pilot based in Launceston, becoming a paramedic was a deeply personal decision. 

After a decade in aeromedical transfers, he realised his passion lay not in flying, but in the human connection.

“I worked closely with Ambulance Tasmania paramedics and found that they were my people,” he said. “I enjoyed the human connection with patients more than flying the plane, so I took the plunge and shifted careers. The training has been amazing, and the positive and safe learning culture here is fantastic."

Emma, who previously worked as a registered nurse in Melbourne, was drawn to paramedicine for the variety and challenge.

“I love the idea of working in the community — rain, hail, or shine. The support here has been incredible, and I’m super keen to meet everyone in the North West,” she said.

For Jemma, a South Australian with a long history of community involvement, paramedicine felt like a natural step.

“It’s a huge responsibility, but it gives you such a strong sense of purpose,” she said. “We’ve been thrown in the deep end — but with a hug and a life boat — so we’re swimming, and we’re swimming good!”

These new graduates follow a recent intake of 16 qualified paramedics from interstate and overseas who began in November 2024.