Individual Support- Aged Care
With an ageing population in Australia, the demand for trained and experienced aged care workers will only continue to increase. By 2066 it is expected that at least 1 in 5 Australians will be over the age of 65.
Working in aged care is one of the most rewarding careers in the health care sector. You can truly make a difference to people’s lives by enhancing their quality of life and providing support and connection when it’s needed most. The role extends beyond mere caregiving; it encompasses empathy, patience, and a deep understanding of the needs of the elderly. Australia’s population is ageing.
If you are looking for a role where you can make a difference daily, assisting older people and their families, then aged care might be the perfect choice for you.
Industry Snapshot
Future Growth Jobs and Skills Australia’s 5 year employment projections estimate the future employment level and amount of projected employment change.
Very strong
Weekly Pay
$1,564*
Unemployment Rate
Low
Duties and Responsibilities
The aged care sector provides a diverse range of services to older people and their families, and these include but are not limited to:
- Providing social and emotional support during daily activities.
- Working with the individual and their family, other health care professionals to ensure their support plan is maintained.
- Assisting with personal care such as washing, showering & dressing.
- Assisting with activities of daily living (e.g. with shopping and cooking).
- Assisting with cleaning and general household tasks.
- Assisting with access to outings, social activities and medical appointments.
- Reporting and documenting any changes in a person’s health or wellbeing.
- Providing in-home support with health issues and daily living tasks such as washing, dressing, eating, transport and budgeting.
- Cooking and serving meals, cleaning premises, washing, ironing and performing other household tasks.
Is the Aged Care Industry right for you?
The aged care services sector operates 24 hours a day for 365 days of the year. You may need to work evenings, weekends, public and school holidays as well as daytime shifts. Employment is mainly part-time.
You will work in an older person’s (the clients) home, or in a residential aged care facility. You will carry out duties under supervision within clearly defined plans and/or organisational guidelines.
Aged care workers may be required to work evenings, weekends and rostered shifts. Their work may include carrying out some supervised medical tasks, such as changing dressings or administering medications. An aged care worker also needs to be aware of any changes in their client’s physical or mental health such as increased discomfort, loss of mobility, hearing or sight loss, signs of depression or anxiety, and report these to their supervisor. They need to also be on the lookout for any safety hazards that may pose risks to themselves, staff and their clients.
You will need to hold a full driver’s licence and have access to a fully insured car if you are required to drive your client anywhere.
Skills required
Patience and flexibility
Supportive and caring nature
Commitment to dignity and rights
Responsible and honest
Strong organisational skills
Good communication skills
Team work
Physical fitness
Mental resilience
Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Skills
Observant and alert
Able to perform domestic task efficiently
Helpful Industry Links
Find out more about the Ageing Industry:
Did you know?
Australia’s aged care workforce is expected to grow to over 800,000 by 2050, which means there are many, many opportunities for people to find work in the industry.
The Aged Care Royal Commission has predicted a 70% workforce increase by 2050.
Common workplace requirements
- Working with Vulnerable People’s check
- National Police Check
- First Aid and CPR certification
- Drivers Licence ( for community and home support care)
- Up to date vaccinations and health screening.
Careers in Individual Support - Aged Care
Aged Care entry-level job titles
- Individual support worker (aged care)
- Home Care Worker
- Extended Care Assistant
- Personal Care Assistant
- Residential Care Worker
- Allied health Assistant
- Assistant in Nursing
As you progress your career, there are job opportunities such as
- Accomodation Manager
- Aged Care Case Manager
- Aged Services Manager
- Customer Support Co-ordinator
- Home Care Co-ordinator
- Home Care Packages Co-ordinator
- Home support Services Manager
- Resident Administration Officer
How to get into the industry
To prepare you for a career in in the growing field of Individual Support, TasTAFE offers several courses that suit your experience and knowledge.
CHC33021 - Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)
This course will equip you to support people who are ageing and require support to live independently, maintain their skills, and to provide specific support in relation to ageing. You will learn how to follow safe work practices including infection control and how to support independence and wellbeing. You will acquire skills in supporting people experiencing dementia, and learn about best practice approaches, models & standards that influence aged care work.
HLT54121 - Diploma of Nursing
This course is the essential minimum requirement to work as an Enrolled Nurse in Australia and will give you the opportunity to develop advanced skills in performing clinical assessments, contributing to the care of people with complex needs, administering and monitoring medications and IV therapy, effectively communicating with patients and colleagues, plus a host of other duties. You’ll also learn to implement and monitor care for people with mental health conditions, and acute and chronic health conditions, as well as how to care for older people.