More than 100 primary care staff have completed the Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting (HLT47715), with the latest cohort graduating in 2025. The Hunter Modern England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has funded 106 scholarships for the qualification, delivered through UNE Partnerships, since its inception in 2018.
The program aims to upskill administrative and reception staff in primary care, enabling them to undertake delegated clinical tasks under the supervision of doctors, and nurses. This is intended to alleviate pressure on clinicians and improve the efficiency of patient flow within general practices.
Dr. Alison Koschel, HNECC PHN Executive Manager Primary Care Workforce and Access, stated the program has consistently yielded positive results. “This program was developed in direct response to workforce pressures in primary care, and the outcomes over the past seven years speak for themselves,” she said. “By investing in the skills of administrative staff, we’re creating a more flexible, capable workforce, supporting clinicians to perform at the top of their scope, and opening up genuine career pathways within general practice.”
Following the recent graduation of 31 students, HNECC PHN is now accepting expressions of interest for a new round of funded places in the Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting.
The nationally recognized qualification comprises 23 units of competency and is delivered over 18 to 24 months. The course combines online learning with in-person First Aid and clinical training, requiring an estimated 15 hours per week of self-directed study.
Alison Tattersall, HNECC PHN Senior Manager Primary Care Workforce and Access, emphasized the importance of internal workforce development. “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.”
Successful applicants will contribute a maximum of $500 towards the total course cost, subject to terms and conditions, through a combination of government funding and PHN scholarships. Scholarships are limited and awarded on a competitive basis.
The HNECC PHN is hosting two online information sessions on February 24 and February 26 to discuss course requirements and how practices can integrate Medical Practice Assistants into their operations. Interested health receptionists and administrators are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest.
UNE Partnerships, RTO 6754, is the delivery partner for the scholarship program, as announced by HNECC PHN on LinkedIn in December 2025.
