How do I become a genetic counsellor
Get qualified to work as a genetic counsellor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Genetic Counsellor.
Common questions
According to recent job listings, salaries for Genetic Counsellors are in the range of $88,500 - $103,000. Increase your earning capacity by obtaining post-graduate and research qualifications in genetics and the biological sciences. You can also raise your profile by joining the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA).
Courses.com.au Team
There are no clear employment figures for Genetic Counsellors working in Australia right now. They are employed in the clinical genetics services unit in public and private hospitals. Some Genetic Counsellors work in private practice.
Courses.com.au Team
To become a Genetic Counsellor in Australia you need to obtain a Bachelor of Science (Biology) or Bachelor of Science (Genetics and Genomics), followed by a Master of Genetic Counselling. To get a job you must register with the Board of Censors in Genetic Counselling (Human Genetics Society of Australasia).
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Diploma of Counselling?
11th September 2019
How to start a career in Mental Health
5th August 2021Genetic Counsellor careers
Genetic Counsellors are qualified health professionals who provide information and counselling services to people with (or at risk of developing) dangerous genetic conditions. They carry out risk assessments with high-risk individuals and help medical patients (and their families) make lifestyle and psychological adjustments to cope with their diagnosis.
As a Genetic Counsellor you could be counselling a young person who has been diagnosed with genetic heart disease, carrying out a risk assessment on a child whose father has motor neurone disease, explaining to family members how a genetic condition will impact their mother’s life expectancy, arranging genetic testing with a medical specialist, running information sessions with hospital nursing staff, or updating patient records after diagnostic testing.
Becoming a Genetic Counsellor takes many years of study and service. To succeed, you’ll need to be committed to your professional development and have the ability to combine technical knowledge with empathic listening and understanding.
