How to become a Phlebotomist

Also called: Pathology Collector, Specimen Collector

Extracts, collects, labels and preserves blood and other specimens from patients for laboratory analysis.

Main tasks

• Gathers necessary equipment and supplies for specimen collection
• Explains the procedure to patients and addresses any concerns or questions
• Prepares the collection site and cleans the area with antiseptic
• Selects the appropriate collection method and collects blood or other specimens from patients
• Labels and properly documents collected specimens for accurate identification and tracking
• Ensures proper handling and storage of collected specimens to maintain integrity and prevent contamination
• Adheres to infection control and safety protocols during specimen collection
• Maintains accurate records of collected specimens and related information
• Collaborates with laboratory staff to ensure timely and accurate processing of specimens

Ways in

• TAFE and VET: Certificate III in Pathology Collection (HLT37215); Certificate III in Pathology Assistance (HLT37415)

Pay · Outlook · AI and this job

• Typical full-time pay: $80,028 a year
• About 41,900 people work in this job group now, and about 49,200 are projected by 2035. (+17.4%)
• AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.

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• Animal Husbandry Technician
• Aquaculture or Fisheries Technician
• Biosecurity Officer
• Fisheries Officer
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Questions people ask

How do I become a Phlebotomist?

Ways in include: Certificate III in Pathology Collection; Certificate III in Pathology Assistance.

How much does a Phlebotomist earn in Australia?

Median full-time pay is $80,028 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Is a Phlebotomist a growing career in Australia?

Yes. Employment is projected to grow 17% by 2035, from about 41,900 to about 49,200 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Do you need a degree to become a Phlebotomist?

Not always. 25% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: Certificate III in Pathology Collection; Certificate III in Pathology Assistance.

Will AI change the work of a Phlebotomist?

AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.

Sources

• Jobs and Skills Australia: Occupation data (ANZSCO), from ABS Labour Force and Census (February 2026), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Jobs and Skills Australia: Generative AI Capacity Study, interactive table data (September 2025), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Jobs and Skills Australia: Employment Projections (Victoria University) (May 2025 to May 2035), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Australian Taxation Office: Taxation Statistics, Individuals Table 15A (2023-24), CC BY 2.5 AU, retrieved 2026-10-04

Updated 2026-10-04