17 March 2025
Performing X-rays and other medical scans to get patients the right diagnosis, radiographers are a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system. But with shortages in nearly all states and territories, how can we convince more young people to take up this essential career?
When Dayna was in high school she had no idea what she wanted to do, but knew she liked tech and helping people. Medical imaging turned out to offer a “perfect balance”. Now almost seven years into her radiography career, she wants more young people to hear about what she does.
“I don’t think many young people consider becoming a radiographer,” Dayna says.
“But it’s a fantastic career. I can see myself staying in it for the rest of my life.”
Dayna’s working with peak body, the Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT), to promote her profession. ASMIRT has captured Dayna's career story in video form, and is distributing the video to high school careers counsellors. They want as many students as possible to consider radiography as an option for their future.
Radiographers use some of the most sophisticated equipment in medicine to take diagnostic images of patients. The multi-million dollar kit includes MRI, CT and X-ray machines that are used in about 90 percent of hospital admissions. Medical imaging is the most requested tool by doctors to inform a diagnosis, only after pathology.
According to the Australian Government's official Occupation Shortage List, radiographers are in shortage in most states and territories. With the field projected to grow, Dayna speaks regularly at high school career days and on social media about her work, to encourage more people to enter the profession.
Carolyn Heyes, President of ASMIRT, says addressing the radiographer shortage is vital.
“Staff shortages mean people are waiting longer for imaging, which means a longer wait for diagnosis. We urgently need to invest in increasing the number of radiographers and other medical radiation practitioners in Australia.”
Prospective radiographers usually complete a four-year undergraduate degree, majoring in medical imaging. The degree includes 52 weeks of practical placement in a clinical setting.
ASMIRT has also created a video to interest high school students in a radiation therapy career. The Society will release a nuclear medicine technology career video later this year.
Simone Costa
simone.costa@asmirt.org
0421 046 102
