So, how long does a first aid certificate last? For Provide First Aid (HLTAID011), Education and Childcare First Aid (HLTAID012) and Provide Advanced First Aid (HLTAID014), the statement of attainment is valid for 3 years. The CPR part is the exception: industry guidance says to refresh CPR every 12 months, even while the rest of your first aid is still current. Below, we break it down by course and explain how to check and renew yours.
How long does a first aid certificate last for each course?
The timeframe depends on the unit on your statement of attainment. Here's a quick guide to the courses we run most often.
| Course | Unit code | How often to renew |
|---|---|---|
| Provide CPR | HLTAID009 | Every 12 months |
| CPR and Low Voltage Rescue | HLTAID009 + UETDRMP018 | Every 12 months (some employers ask for 6) |
| Provide First Aid | HLTAID011 | 3 years, with CPR refreshed every 12 months |
| Education and Childcare First Aid | HLTAID012 | 3 years, with CPR refreshed every 12 months |
| Provide Advanced First Aid | HLTAID014 | 3 years, with CPR refreshed every 12 months |
Why CPR needs refreshing sooner
CPR is a hands-on skill, and it's the one you're least likely to practise between courses. A yearly refresher keeps your technique sharp and your confidence to respond high.
The timeframes come from workplace guidance. Safe Work Australia's model Code of Practice for first aid in the workplace says refresher training in CPR should be carried out annually and first aid qualifications should be renewed every three years. The Queensland Government's Provide first aid course page gives the same 12 month and three year timeframes.
If you hold HLTAID011, you can keep your CPR current between full renewals with a standalone Provide CPR course. Our guide on how often you need to renew CPR covers this in more detail.
Who decides when you need to renew?
Your statement of attainment records the unit you were found competent in and the date it was issued. The 3 year and 12 month periods are guidance, so in practice your employer or industry sets the rule you need to meet.
Some workplaces ask for more. For example, some employers want CPR and low voltage rescue renewed every 6 months. If you're unsure, check with your manager or HR before you book.
How to check when your certificate is due
A few quick checks will tell you where you stand.
- Find the issue date on your statement of attainment
- Add 12 months for CPR and 3 years for first aid
- Check your workplace policy for any shorter timeframe
- Employers can verify an ABC First Aid certificate on ABC First Aid's website
- Need a printed copy? ABC First Aid can post a hard copy for $25, including postage
Renew before it expires and save time
If your certificate is still current, you can book the Express version of your course. It's the same price as Standard, with a shorter face to face session. For Provide First Aid, Express is about 1 hour face to face instead of 4.
Once your certificate has expired, Express is no longer an option and you'll need the Standard course. That's why we suggest booking a few weeks before your due date.
For Express, bring a copy of your current statement of attainment along with your USI and completed eLearning. Our list of what to bring to a first aid course has the full checklist.
Renewing your first aid in Townsville
We run public courses at our Kirwan classroom Monday to Saturday, and you can see upcoming dates on our course calendar. Our trainers bring real world experience from nursing, paramedicine, defence and emergency response, so it's practical training with plenty of room for questions.
Renewing a whole team? We come to you anywhere in Townsville for groups of 8 or more, and quote for workplaces across North, West, Northwest and Central Queensland. Take a look at our corporate first aid training options.
Common questions
Can I do the Express course if my certificate expired last week?
No. Express is only available while your certificate is current. Once it has expired, you'll need to complete the Standard course.
Does Provide First Aid (HLTAID011) include CPR?
Yes. HLTAID011 includes HLTAID009 Provide CPR. The first aid part lasts 3 years, but you should still refresh CPR every 12 months.
When does the 3 years start?
Work from the issue date on your statement of attainment. ABC First Aid emails it as soon as possible once you're assessed as competent, your fees are paid and your USI is verified.
Which course do I need to renew?
Usually the same unit you hold now, or the one your employer asks for. If you're not sure, our guide on which course you need can help, or give us a call on 0439 324 848.
