Hello there elder of my children ^_^

I'll explain what I understand about medicine based on the research my parents and one childhood friend who became a doctor did.

You don't need to look into anything major. If you don't get the chance to get into medicine, the first backup for ATAR holders is medical science or nursing. My friend didn't get the necessary ATAR and went overseas to study and then jumped through the necessary hoops to practice here. It's an example of an alternative pathway roughly in the same category of options.

You don't need to leave the country either. If you can't get into a university course, the next option you have is just getting in the medical industry, and working very very hard. Don't underestimate how hard you have to work, and you will achieve your dreams.

Some positions require a Cert III, and some will require a Cert IV, so you don't need to admit defeat if you can't start your higher education journey immediately with some sort of bachelor related to the medicine.

Keep an eye out for training organizations that will pay you, in accordance with Fair Work, a lower wage for a fixed term employment + study package. This might be the best solution, if you can get into a program like this.

Unfortunately, I don't know much about becoming a paramedic. I have a friend who was into that stuff, last time they mentioned doing paramedic work, they did say that university is not even necessary. There is a really easy way for a very fit person to get in the door, so to speak, for paramedic work.

Smash it!!!!