CPR is one of the most important life-saving skills any educator, childcare worker, or disability support professional can have. But knowing how to perform CPR isn’t a “set-and-forget” skill — it needs to be practised regularly and updated every year.
Whether you’re working with infants, children, teens, or adults, your ability to respond quickly and confidently in a cardiac emergency can literally mean the difference between life and death.
In this blog, we break down why annual CPR refreshers are essential, what the regulations say, and how AB First Aid helps keep your team ready, compliant, and confident.
According to the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and most training authorities, CPR (HLTAID009) must be refreshed every 12 months to remain current.
In regulated sectors like:
- Childcare and early learning (as per the Education and Care Services National Regulations)
- Schools and education (under Ministerial Order 706 in Victoria)
- Disability and NDIS-funded services (under NDIS Practice Standards)
…it’s not just best practice — it’s a requirement.
Many funding bodies, auditors, and compliance officers will ask to see proof that all key staff have completed CPR within the past 12 months — not just First Aid every 3 years.
Why CPR Skills Fade Without Practice
Research shows that most people forget or misapply CPR techniques within 3–6 months of their last course — especially if they haven’t practised since.
Common mistakes include:
- Compressions that are too shallow or too slow
- Not knowing how to switch between rescuers
- Forgetting AED (defibrillator) use steps
- Delaying the emergency call
- Freezing or panicking under pressure
In a real emergency, you don’t want staff hesitating, guessing, or unsure of their technique. Muscle memory only comes from repetition.
CPR in Childcare and School Settings
Educators and support workers often face unique situations when it comes to CPR:
- Administering CPR to infants or toddlers, where technique differs
- Responding to near-drownings, asthma attacks, or anaphylaxis
- Managing large groups of children while coordinating emergency services
- Working alone or in small teams with limited backup
That’s why our training focuses not just on the “how” but on the real-world situations you’re likely to face.
What an Annual CPR Refresher Covers
Your yearly CPR refresher (HLTAID009) should include:
- Hands-on chest compressions on infant, child, and adult manikins
- Practice with AED defibrillators
- Scenario-based simulations (e.g. child collapses on playground)
- Recovery position and post-resuscitation care
- Emergency procedures and role allocation
Benefits of Regular CPR Training
- Improved confidence across your whole team
- Reduced panic during high-stress events
- Stronger teamwork and clearer emergency communication
- Evidence of compliance during audits or inspections
- Better outcomes for children, students, or clients in your care
How AB First Aid Makes CPR Refreshers Easy
We come to your school, centre, or service and deliver:
- Nationally recognised CPR courses (HLTAID009)
- Flexible session times (PD days, after school, weekends)
- Trainers with real experience in education and care
- Small group, hands-on training — no lecture-style overload
- Full records for compliance, plus reminders when you’re due again
Our sessions are practical, inclusive, and focused on real-life response — not just ticking boxes.
Is Your CPR Up to Date?
If your CPR certificate is older than 12 months, or if you’re unsure whether your team is covered, now is the time to act.
Don’t wait for an emergency to find out.
Book your CPR refresher with AB First Aid:
Email: info@abfirstaid.com.au
Call: 03 8364 8984
Website: www.abfirstaid.com.au
