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Public Health Officer

Public Health Officers enhance community health by raising awareness of health issues and implementing programs for vulnerable populations.

How do I become a public health officer

Get qualified to work as a public health officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Public Health Officer.

Common questions

Public Health Officers in Australia generally earn between $70,000 and $130,000, depending on your qualifications, skills, and professional profile. Obtaining post-graduate qualifications in public health with definitely increase your earning capacity.

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There are no clear figures for Public Health Officers working in Australia at this time. However, in the aftermath of the COVID19 pandemic and the global threat of divergent diseases (as well as rising levels of obesity and sedentary behaviour), this is likely to be a growth occupation. Public Health Officers are employed by government agencies and healthcare organisations.

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Public Health Officers generally hold a Bachelor of Public Health or Bachelor of Health and Community Services. If you hold a degree in another discipline (eg, community services/psychology), you could launch a career change with a Graduate Certificate/Diploma in Public Health. Another possibility is an undergraduate Diploma of Health and Wellbeing. Public Health Officers need well developed administration and organisation skills, as well as outstanding personal presentation. Supporting qualifications in business administration or from the public sector training package may also be helpful.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023.

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Further reading

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Public Health Officer careers

Public Health Officers raise community awareness of current health issues and seek to improve the overall health and wellbeing of the general public. They can be employed by local, state, or federal agencies and are often involved in specialist programs that target vulnerable sectors of the population like indigenous persons and seniors.

As a public health officer you could be running a COVID19 awareness program, collaborating with indigenous leaders to implement a program that combats diabetes and heart disease, developing a drug and alcohol education program for high schools, or just juggling your busy schedule.