AV celebrates its newest paramedic graduates

June 3, 2024 | in News

Ambulance Victoria (AV) celebrated the latest group of graduate Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics at a ceremony in Sunshine on Sunday.

More than 30 graduates were joined by family, friends and special guests to acknowledge them successfully completing the Graduate Ambulance Paramedic (GAP) program.

Several graduates sat in a row at the graduation event.

More than 30 graduates successfully completed the Graduate Ambulance Paramedic (GAP) program.

GAPs undertake a structured, on-road supervision and learning program for at least 12 months after completing their university degrees, before becoming fully qualified ALS paramedics.

The program helps graduates transition from the classroom to the ‘real world’, integrating into day-to-day team responsibilities and activities.

Graduating Cranbourne Paramedic, Tom Williams said he pursued a career in paramedicine after being inspired by his previous role working as a ‘cast member’ for Disney World in Florida.

“Disney World encouraged us to go out of our way to make someone’s day better by creating magical moments and it prompted me to think about what I wanted to do,” he said.

“I wanted to make those moments happen for people, so it encouraged me to consider another career.

“Now I get that in my job, and I love all aspects; whether it be going to the big cases, or the little things like making a someone a cup of tea or holding someone’s hand because they’re scared of what’s happened – It fulfils me.”

A male graduate paramedic is holding his graduation certificate. He is standing beside Ambulance Victoria Chief Executive Jane Miller.

Graduate paramedic Tom Williams with Ambulance Victoria Chief Executive Jane Miller.

Tom was also inspired to become a paramedic after speaking to several family members who are nurses and said he couldn’t have done it without their support.

“Paramedicine wasn’t something I thought I’d do,” he said.

“I love the variety of work. There are so many little things that can make it special.

“I encourage people to find a career where you can have those magic moments every day.”

A groups of graduate paramedics clapping their hands at the graduation ceremony.

The new graduates are ready to deliver Best Care to all Victorians.

AV Chief Executive Jane Miller said it was an honour to celebrate this milestone with the new graduates.

“We congratulate all our newest ALS paramedics on completing their graduate ambulance paramedic program and are thrilled to see them starting the next chapter in their careers,” she said.

“They have already spent significant time on-road and are deeply passionate about improving the health of the community by delivering Best Care to all Victorians.”