If you’re looking to get your “first aid ticket” sorted for work or personal safety, the first question on your mind is likely about the damage to your wallet. You don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, but you also need a certificate that is actually worth the paper it’s printed on.
On average, a standard first aid course cost in Australia sits between $80 and $150. However, there are quite a few variables that can move the needle on that price. Whether you’re a tradie in Sydney or a childcare worker in Perth, this guide breaks down the real costs, hidden fees, and how to find affordable first aid training without cutting corners on quality.
Average First Aid Course Cost in Australia
If you’re in a rush and just want the “no-nonsense” numbers, here is what you can expect to pay for the most common units of competency in 2026:
- Standard First Aid (HLTAID011): $80–$150 (The most common workplace requirement).
- Advanced First Aid (HLTAID014): $180–$350 (For safety officers and high-risk sites).
- CPR Only (HLTAID009): $50–$90 (Usually a 2–3 hour refresher).
- Blended (Online + Face-to-Face): $90–$180 (Convenient for those short on time).
Generally, the more “advanced” the skills, the higher the price tag, as these courses require more time with a qualified trainer and more expensive medical equipment.
What Determines the Cost of a First Aid Course?
It might seem like all courses are the same, but several factors contribute to the first aid training price you see at checkout.
1. Course Type
A simple CPR refresher is a piece of cake for most providers to run, hence the lower price. However, a full first aid course, which includes everything from wound care to snake bites—requires more resources and longer classroom hours.
2. Delivery Format
“Blended” learning (where you do the theory at home and just come in for the practical) is often cheaper because it reduces the time a trainer needs to spend in a rented classroom. Full face-to-face sessions are more traditional but usually carry a slight premium for the extra hours of supervision.
3. Provider Reputation and Accreditation
This is where you need to be careful. You might find a dirt-cheap course online, but if the provider isn’t a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), your employer won’t accept the certificate. Always stick with an accredited RTO to ensure your qualification is nationally recognised.
4. Location / City
Like most things in life, prices vary by postcode. First aid course cost NSW might differ slightly from the NT due to venue hire costs and local competition.
First Aid Course Prices by State / Capital City
While the national average is consistent, local market competition plays a big part in how much you’ll fork out.
New South Wales (NSW)
In the Sydney and Granville areas, competition is fierce, which is great for you. You can often find affordable first aid training around the $90–$110 mark for a standard HLTAID011 course.
Victoria (VIC) & Queensland (QLD)
In Melbourne and Brisbane, prices are fairly similar to Sydney, usually ranging from $95 to $130. Regional areas in these states might see a $20–$30 “travel premium” if trainers have to head out to smaller towns.
Western Australia (WA) & South Australia (SA)
Perth and Adelaide sit comfortably in the $100–$140 bracket. WA, in particular, has a high demand for Advanced First Aid due to the mining industry, which can push those specific course prices slightly higher.
Online vs Face-to-Face What Costs More?
There’s a bit of a myth that online-only is the cheapest way to go. Here’s the reality: you cannot get a nationally recognised first aid certificate fully online. You must demonstrate CPR on a manikin in person.
The “Blended” model is usually the most cost-effective. It saves the provider money on overheads, and those savings are often passed on to you. It’s a win-win, you save money and you don’t have to sit in a classroom for eight hours straight.
Hidden Costs You Should Know About
Don’t let a “cheap” headline price throw a spanner in the works. Always check for:
- USI Setup: Getting a Unique Student Identifier is free, but some dodgy providers might try to charge a “processing fee.” (Avoid them!).
- Materials: Most providers include digital manuals, but if you want a hard-copy book, expect to pay an extra $20.
- Certificate Reprints: If you lose your digital file and need a reprint months later, some places charge a small admin fee.
- Reassessment Fees: If you fail the practical and need to come back another day, check if there’s a “rest” fee.
How to Get the Best Price Without Sacrificing Quality
If you’re looking to save a few bob, follow these tips:
- Group Discounts: If you and a few mates (or your whole workplace) book together, most RTOs will offer a significant discount.
- Package Deals: Booking First Aid and CPR together is almost always cheaper than doing them separately.
- Book Early: Last-minute bookings can sometimes be more expensive, or you might miss out on the cheaper “Early Bird” slots.
- Accredited RTO Only: Saving $10 on an unaccredited course is a waste of money because you’ll just have to do it again for work.
Book Your Accredited First Aid Course Today
At the end of the day, when you’re looking for how much is a first aid course, you’re really looking for value. You want a course that is fast, professional, and won’t break the bank.
At Multisec Training, we pride ourselves on offering affordable first aid training across Sydney and Granville. We don’t beat around the bush, our prices are transparent, our trainers are top-notch, and we offer same-day certification so you can get back to work immediately.
Whether you need:
- Standard First Aid (HLTAID011)
- CPR Refresher
- Advanced First Aid (HLTAID014)
[Book Your Course with Multisec Training Now] and get certified by the best in the business without the “premium” price tag.
FAQ’s
- Does the first aid certificate expire?
Yes. To stay up to scratch, you need to renew your First Aid every 3 years and your CPR every 12 months.
- Is there a cheaper online only first aid course?
You might find them, but they aren’t legally valid for workplace compliance in Australia. Don’t be fooled!
- Why do prices vary so much?
It usually comes down to the quality of the trainers, the equipment used (like high-tech manikins), and the speed at which they issue your certificate.
