Is CPR Included in HLTAID011?

Yes, CPR is included in HLTAID011 Provide First Aid. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a core component of this nationally recognised unit of competency, which covers the skills and knowledge required to recognise and respond to life-threatening emergencies, including performing CPR on adults, children, and infants.

When you complete HLTAID011 at ALIT (RTO 45156), you will be trained and assessed in CPR as part of the one-day course. This means you graduate with the ability to perform CPR in a workplace or community setting, in addition to other first aid skills such as managing bleeding, fractures, and choking emergencies.

What CPR skills are covered in HLTAID011?

HLTAID011 includes the following CPR-related competencies:

• Performing CPR on an adult, child, and infant
• Using an automated external defibrillator (AED)
• Applying the correct compression-to-breath ratio (30:2 for adults)
• Assessing an unconscious casualty and checking for breathing
• Placing an unconscious, breathing person in the recovery position
• Responding to choking emergencies in adults, children, and infants

These skills are assessed through practical demonstration, where you perform CPR on a training manikin under the supervision of a qualified trainer. The assessment also includes a written component to confirm your understanding of the procedures and the legal considerations around providing first aid.

How is HLTAID011 different from HLTAID009 Provide CPR?

HLTAID011 Provide First Aid is a broader unit that includes CPR as one of several skills. HLTAID009 Provide CPR is a standalone unit that focuses exclusively on CPR and AED use. Here is how they compare:

• HLTAID011 — covers CPR, AED use, bleeding management, fracture management, burns, allergic reactions, asthma, and anaphylaxis. Typically a one-day course.
• HLTAID009 — covers CPR and AED use only. Typically completed in half a day.

If your employer or industry requires a first aid certificate, HLTAID011 is the standard unit. If you only need CPR certification (for example, for workplace refreshers), HLTAID009 may be sufficient. Check with your employer or the relevant regulatory authority to confirm which unit you need.

At ALIT, the Provide First Aid course ($160) includes CPR training within the HLTAID011 unit, so you do not need to complete a separate CPR course unless specifically required.

How often do I need to renew my CPR skills?

Industry best practice recommends renewing your CPR skills every 12 months. While HLTAID011 itself is valid for three years, the CPR component should be refreshed annually to maintain competence. Many employers require annual CPR refresher training as a condition of employment.

ALIT offers regular CPR refresher courses through the HLTAID009 Provide CPR unit, which can be completed in half a day. Contact the team on (03) 9917 5018 to book your annual refresher.

Who needs HLTAID011 in Australia?

HLTAID011 is required or recommended for a wide range of workers and volunteers in Australia, including:

• Childcare and education workers — required under the National Quality Framework (NQF) for early childhood educators
• Security officers — included as a core unit in the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations
• First aid officers in workplaces — required by Safe Work Australia guidelines
• Community services workers — expected for roles involving direct client contact
• Construction and trades workers — required under many WHS policies
• Sports coaches and fitness instructors — required by most sporting organisations

For a full breakdown, see our guide on who needs a first aid certificate in Australia.

What is the difference between HLTAID011 and HLTAID012?

HLTAID012 is Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting. It builds on HLTAID011 and adds specific skills for managing medical emergencies in childcare and school environments, including:

• Managing asthma and anaphylaxis in children
• Responding to conditions specific to infants and young children
• Following ACECQA and state-based regulatory requirements for education and care settings

If you work in childcare or education, HLTAID012 may be the more appropriate unit. For general workplace first aid, HLTAID011 is sufficient. Confirm current requirements with your employer or the relevant state authority.

Frequently asked questions

Does HLTAID011 include AED training?

Yes. Training on how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) is included in HLTAID011. You will practice using a training AED as part of the CPR component of the course.

How long is HLTAID011 valid?

The qualification is valid for three years from the date of issue. However, it is recommended that you refresh your CPR skills every 12 months to maintain competence.

Can I do HLTAID011 online?

HLTAID011 requires face-to-face practical assessment, as you must demonstrate CPR and other first aid skills in person. Some providers offer online theory components followed by a practical assessment session. Contact ALIT to find out about available delivery options.

Is HLTAID011 the same as a first aid certificate?

Yes. HLTAID011 Provide First Aid is the current nationally recognised unit for first aid certification in Australia. It replaced the older HLTFA311A code and is the standard unit referenced by employers and regulators.

Ready to get certified? Explore the Provide First Aid course at ALIT or call (03) 9917 5018 to enrol.