Education level
Job area
Your role as a genetic counsellor
As a genetic counsellor, you’ll explain how certain health conditions can be passed from parents to their children.
This includes:
- helping people understand health conditions that run in their family
- explaining genetic tests and what the results mean
- supporting people after they are told they have a disease or illness
We have full time and part time roles.
How a genetic counsellor is different to a psychologist
A genetic counsellor helps people understand how their genes might increase their chance of developing certain conditions.
A psychologist focuses on mental health, using therapy to help people with their thoughts, feelings and emotions.
What your day might look like
Our genetic counsellors work in major hospitals across Queensland. You’ll start the day by checking in with your team and getting ready for appointments with adults, children and families.
Some people you see may already have a genetic condition. Others might have genes that increase their chance of developing conditions like cancer or Alzheimer’s disease.
Your work includes:
- helping people understand their condition and what it means
- explaining genetic testing and health care options available
- talking through any risks for their children.
You’ll also support parents, pregnant people, and couples who are planning a family.
A big part of your job is listening and talking with patients. You’ll explore a person's family health history, values and concerns, and support them as they cope with strong emotions.
You’ll also discuss complex cases with specialists so you can give advice about test results, risks and options.
Read more about working as a genetic counsellor on the Your Career website.
Qualifications
Master’s degree in genetic counselling followed by supervised practice
Professional licenses and registration
You’ll be a certified Fellow of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (FHGSA). To get certified, you must register as a member, work 2 years in professional practice, and do training and assessments.
Pay and benefits
Your pay rate and benefits will depend on your role and your pay point. In your first year you’ll start at health practitioner grade 3, pay point 1. You’ll get a different rate if you’re a student.
We also offer:
- regular wage increases
- a superannuation rate of 12.75%
- a supportive workplace with flexible working arrangements
- several types of leave
- salary packaging
- help with ongoing professional development costs.
If you're moving to start a new job with us, you may be able to get help with moving and travel costs.
Professional growth
You’ll develop your professional skills through:
- orientation programs for new staff
- workplace learning and coaching
- self directed learning
- professional development and upskilling opportunities.
Career paths
Working as a genetic counsellor or doing more study can lead to other roles.
- Genomic scientist
- Specialist genetic counsellor
- Clinical geneticist
If you plan to do more study, ask your training provider if your past studies can count towards a higher qualification.