Qualification Outline
22/07/2026 8:06 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Certificate III in Pathology
Certificate III in Pathology
HLT32607
D049
Replaced
Replaced
National Endorsed, State Implementation and Classification
Releases
| Release Version | Release Date | TGA Status | DTWD Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.00 | 25/03/2011 | Current | Approved |
Description
This qualification covers workers who undertake the collection of blood and other pathology specimens under supervision. It should be noted that this qualification does not cover collection of a range of specimens for specialised testing, collection of arterial blood gases or team leadership and training. This qualification is suited to Australian Apprenticeship pathways.
Occupational titles for these workers may include:
Specimen collection officer
Pathology assistant
Laboratory aide
Specimen reception assistant
Pathology collector
Operational officer
Schedule
Packaging Rules
14 units of competency are required for award of this qualification, including:- 6 core units
- 8 elective units, including:
- Group A electives which are required for work in pathology collection
- Group B electives - required for work in pathology assistance
- Group C electives which are recommended for culturally aware and respectful practice
- Other relevant electives listed in the qualification outline
- Units of competency to address workplace requirements and packaged at the level of this qualification or higher in Health and/or Community Services Training Packages
- Where appropriate, to address workplace requirements, up to 2 units of competency packaged at the level of this qualification or higher in other relevant Training Packages or accredited courses where the details of those courses are available on the NTIS or other public listing
1. Core Units
All six (6) units must be completed
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D8247 | HLTFA301C | Apply first aid | 20 | Unit of competency |
| D8280 | HLTHIR301B | Communicate and work effectively in health | 40 | Unit of competency |
| D8306 | HLTIN301C | Comply with infection control policies and procedures | 30 | Unit of competency |
| D0712 | BSBFLM303C | Contribute to effective workplace relationships | 30 | Unit of competency |
| D8381 | HLTOHS300B | Contribute to OHS processes | 30 | Unit of competency |
| D0835 | BSBMED301B | Interpret and apply medical terminology appropriately | 40 | Unit of competency |
2. Other Elective Units
Three (3) units to be completed
The following outlines ONE example training program for this qualification.
Please refer to the Training Package for the full details of available options
Note: PAT units must be delivered by qualified pathology technicians or pathologists.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D8399 | HLTPAT304C | Collect pathology specimens other than blood | 40 | Unit of competency |
| D5761 | HLTAP301B | Recognise healthy body systems in a health care context | 20 | Unit of competency |
| D5840 | HLTCSD306C | Respond effectively to difficult or challenging behaviour | 15 | Unit of competency |
3. Group A Elective Units
Three (3) units to be completed
The following units must be selected for work in pathology collection
Note: PAT units must be delivered by qualified pathology technicians or pathologists.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D8403 | HLTPAT308C | Identify and respond to clinical risks associated with pathology specimen collection | 35 | Unit of competency |
| D8401 | HLTPAT305C | Operate efficiently within a pathology and specimen collection environment | 30 | Unit of competency |
| D8402 | HLTPAT306C | Perform blood collection | 200 | Unit of competency |
4. Group B Elective Units
Two (2) units to be completed
The following outlines ONE example training program for this qualification.
Please refer to the Training Package for the full details of available options
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D0652 | BSBCUS301A | Deliver and monitor a service to customers | 40 | Unit of competency |
| WA694 | MSL953001A | Receive and prepare samples for testing | 40 | Unit of competency |
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AXI4 | HLT31202 | Certificate III in Health Service Assistance (Pathology Assistance) | Qualification |
| C459 | HLT30102 | Certificate III in Pathology Specimen Collection | Qualification |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| J066 | HLT32612 | Certificate III in Pathology | Qualification |
VET Info Notes
1. This qualification is the copyright of The Department of Education, Science & Training (DEST).
2. Further information on this qualification is contained in the training Package available from Australian Training Products Ltd., Tel: (03) 9630 9836.
3. This qualification was entered on to the STARS by the VET Teaching & Learning Directorate of the WA Department of Education & Training on 22 October 2007.
Entry Requirements
Not Applicable
Traineeships and Apprenticeships