Certificate III in Health Services Assistance - VDSS

This qualification is designed as an entry‑level pathway for students who are considering a career in the healthcare or community services sectors. It provides foundational knowledge and skills to prepare students for further study and future employment within health‑related environments.

Throughout this course, students will develop an understanding of:

• Working effectively with individuals from diverse social, cultural, and workplace backgrounds
• The importance of clear, respectful, and professional communication in health and community settings
• Essential workplace practices required within the healthcare sector

The course covers a range of core concepts and practical skills, including:

• Effective communication in health and community service environments
• Infection prevention and control procedures
• Understanding and responding to behaviours of concern
• Safe methods for assisting and transporting individuals
• Delivery of this qualification includes both theoretical instruction and practical skill‑based activities.

Students will engage in hands‑on learning tasks designed to support the application of knowledge in realistic scenarios. Practical learning classes are conducted on campus in a simulated healthcare environment to support skill development in a safe and controlled setting.
Successful completion provides pathways and some credit into:

• Certificate III in Individual Support
• Certificate III in Aged Care
• Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance

This course helps you build confidence and prepare for further study in the healthcare sector.

Entry Requirements

This course is for students undertaking the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM). Please contact your school for more information.

Proposed Units

• HLTWHS001Participate in workplace health and safety
• CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in health or community services
• CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
• HLTINF006 Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control
• BSBWOR301 Organise personal work priorities and development
• CHCCCS002 Assist with movement
• HLTAAP001 Recognise healthy body systems
• BSBMED301 Interpret and apply medical terminology appropriately
• HLTHPS001 Take clinical measurements

Clothing and Equipment

• Solid, closed toe shoes
• Students must have access to a computer and internet

Pathways

Here are the next steps you could take in your education pathway:

• Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance
• Diploma of Nursing
• Certificate IV in Leisure and Health

Potential Job Outcomes

• Patient Services Assistant