How to Become a Sonographer in Australia

How to Become a Sonographer in Australia? – A Complete Guide

 

If you are wondering “how to become a sonographer in Australia”, this guide is for you. Sonographers play a vital role in healthcare by using ultrasound technology to create images of the body. It is a rewarding career in Australia.

 

To become a qualified sonographer in Australia you need to meet different requirements such as educational requirements, Eligibility criteria, a valid visa, and Positive skill assessment. This blog is a detailed guide to kickstart your career as a sonographer in Australia.

 

I will walk you through each step, making it easier to understand what it takes to become a qualified sonographer in Australia. Read out the blog to the end so you won’t miss a single step. Let’s begin!

 

Who is a Sonographer?

A sonographer is a medical imaging professional who operates ultrasound equipment to interpret, capture, and selectively file anatomical images of patients based on requests from Doctors. Sonographic examination provides the doctor with ultrasound imaging of the patient and it highly depends on the skill set of the sonographer. 

 

In Australia a sonographer can work in multiple ultrasound imaging disciplines. These disciplines include: abdomen and chest, breast, cardiac, musculoskeletal, obstetric and gynaecological, paediatric, small parts, and vascular. The selection of any of these disciplines depends on your choice and specialisation.

 

What are the Duties of a Sonographer in Australia?

Before choosing sonography as a career you must be aware of the responsibilities related to your role. Here is a list of responsibilities that you will fulfil as a sonographer. 

 

  • Explain procedures to patients.
  • Answer all the questions and ensure patient welfare throughout the exam.
  • Examine referrals from Doctors and ensure they are current.
  • Operate ultrasound equipment to ensure the interior images are clear.
  • Position patients correctly, also equipment and screens for maximum exposure and clarity.
  • Select the images needed for diagnostic purposes.
  • Write a report for Doctors.

 

How to Become a Sonographer in Australia?

Becoming a Sonographer in Australia requires a certain level of qualification and training. Here are the requirements you must meet to start your career as a sonographer:

 

  • You must have an undergraduate Degree in Applied Science or its equivalent.
  • Your undergraduate degree can be in Medical Radiation Technology, Nuclear Medicine Technology, or Radiotherapy. 
  • Other science degrees like Biomedical Science, Physiotherapy and Nursing can also be considered.
  • If you have an undergraduate degree, apply for a post-graduate diploma course.

 

Study Requirements for Overseas Sonographer

If you are a skilled sonographer in your home country but want to pursue your career in Australia you need to fulfil some educational requirements:

  • Provide evidence that you have secured a clinical medical ultrasound training position with an Australian medical ultrasound service provider.
  • Your training must consist of 0.6 full-time equivalents (FTE) minimum.
  • Provide proof of acceptance into a post-graduate diploma course by any Australian university.
  • If you are an overseas qualified sonographer or doctor your qualification is assessed by the ASMIRT (Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy)
  • Overseas candidates must have to ensure that they meet the relevant working visa requirements. 

 

 

Universities Offering Sonography Degree in Australia

There are several institutions in Australia that offer sonography degrees. Here’s a table including universities and their respective programs, fees, and durations:

 

University Program Fees (AUD)
CQUniversity Australia Bachelor of Medical Sonography $10,294 (CSP) / $29,853 (FFP) per year
University of South Australia Graduate Diploma in Medical Sonography (General) $35,600 per annum
University of South Australia Master of Medical Sonography (General) $35,600 per annum
Monash University Master of Medical Ultrasound $33,500 per annum
Edith Cowan University Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography Not specified
Queensland University of Technology Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound Not specified
University of Canberra Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound Not specified
Western Sydney University Graduate Diploma in Vascular Sonography Not specified
Western Sydney University Master of Cardiac Sonography Not specified

 

Queensland University of Technology offers specialized graduate diplomas in both medical ultrasound and cardiac ultrasound.

University of Canberra provides a graduate diploma focused on medical ultrasound.

Western Sydney University has multiple programs including graduate diplomas and a master’s degree specifically targeting various areas of sonography.

 

Educational institutions currently offering accredited post-graduate programs in medical ultrasound in Australia are listed and accredited by the Australasian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR). The entrance requirements will differ between institutions, so contacting your preferred educational body directly is highly recommended.

 

How Can I work in Australia as a Sonographer?

In order to be able to work as a sonographer in Australia, you must get your qualifications and experience recognised in Australia and obtain the relevant visa. There are two regulatory bodies that Sonographers need to receive accreditation from before coming to work in Australia.

Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT) and the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR). During their accreditation process, the ASMIRT will assess your undergraduate and post-graduate qualifications, your clinical experience, and your level of English proficiency. 

 

This process can take up to four months. Once you have had your qualifications and experience recognised with ASAR, you will be able to work as a Sonographer in all Australian States and Territories.

 

Australian Visas For Overseas Sonographers

To work as a qualified overseas sonographer in Australia you need a valid visa to travel to Australia. Here are some visa options for overseas sonographers:

  • Subclass 189 or Skilled Independent Visa
  • Subclass 190 or Skilled Nominated Visa
  • Subclass 491 or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

 

1. Subclass 189 or Skilled Independent Visa

This visa is for skilled workers who want to live and work permanently in Australia without needing a sponsor.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for skilled independent visa you must have:

 

  • Positive skills assessment from the Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT).
  • At least 65 points on the points test.
  • Under 45 years of age at the time of application.
  • Proficient English and proof such as IELTS score of at least 6.0.
  • Health and character requirements.

 

2. Subclass 190 or Skilled Nominated Visa

This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia. A condition on this visa is that you must be  nominated by an Australian state or territory government.

Eligibility Criteria:

The eligibility criteria is similar to the Subclass 189 but:

 

  • You must be nominated by a state or territory.
  • Must have a positive skills assessment and meet the points test requirements.
  • Must meet English language, health, age, and character requirements.

 

3. Subclass 491 or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

This provisional visa allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • You require nomination by a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
  • You must have a positive skills assessment and meet the points test (minimum of 65 points).
  • You must meet age, English language, health, and character requirements.

 

After three years on this visa, holders may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

  

Additional Visa Options

  • Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa

 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, becoming a sonographer might look like a tough task but if you are dedicated to pursue a career in Australia and passionate about your field you can surely secure a spot. I have already explained to you how to become a sonographer in Australia. You just need to follow the steps I have mentioned above.

 

If you are still confused and looking for the right assistance, “The Migration” can be your best choice. Our team is dedicated to help you throughout the process and answer all the questions bothering you. To make your immigration process smooth and simple contact us today and book your appointment with our best educational counsellors.

 

 

FAQs

Is sonography in demand in Australia?

There is an ever-growing demand for qualified sonographers due to their increasing importance and advances in medical ultrasound technology. In fact, there’s a shortage of sonographers in Australia.

 

What degree is best for sonography?

An associate degree in sonography degree covers important subjects like anatomy, physiology, and math. Degrees from accredited institutions improve potential transfer opportunities and continuing education paths, and can be more appealing to employers.

 

What kind of sonography makes the most money?

The highest-paying sonography specialties include:

  • OB/GYN sonography.
  • Vascular sonography.
  • Neuro sonography.
  • Cardiac sonography.
  • Pediatric cardiac sonography

Hello Everyone! I am Riyan Waris, an enthusiastic writer dedicated to guide people who want to move to Australia. Through my informative and well-researched content, I aim to make your immigration process smooth and stress-free.