Considering doing an aged care course in Australia? Working in aged care can be incredibly rewarding – but it doesn’t come without its challenges. It takes a special kind of person to work in this sector. Think you’re up for it? From job opportunities to funding options, consider these 8 factors before taking the leap as an aged care worker
1. Job Growth
The aged care sector has very strong future growth. In fact, research shows the number of aged care job vacancies in Australia more than doubled from 2015-16, and aged care job vacancies exceeded applicants by 400% in January 2016.
With a high demand for professional aged care workers, chances are very likely you’ll have plenty of job opportunities within the industry once qualified.
2. Average Salary
The national average salary for a full-time aged care worker is $45,000 per annum. Pay will generally increase as experience in the role increases.
So the longer you’re employed as an aged care worker, the more you’re likely to be paid – not unlike most occupations.
3. Aged Care Job Opportunities
There’s a wide range of jobs available in the aged care sector. On completion of a Certificate IV in Ageing Support, you’ll have the opportunity to seek employment in the following roles:
- Aged care worker
- Personal care assistant
- Community support worker
- Aged care activity worker
- Care services team leader
- Care supervisor.
4. Key Skills
Working in aged care – and the healthcare sector in general – isn’t for everyone. It requires a special set of interpersonal skills such as:
- A caring and supportive attitude
- Excellent communication skills
- Patience and discretion
- Empathy and understanding
- The desire to help others.
If you possess these skills and attributes, a career in aged care could be the perfect choice for you.
5. Key Responsibilities of an Aged Care Worker
As an aged care worker, you’ll provide support – both physical and emotional – to older people who need it.
Some daily tasks of an aged care worker might include:
- Helping clients with personal care and hygiene (e.g. showering, dressing, toileting)
- Assisting with nutrition and hydration
- Taking vital signs (e.g. blood pressure, pulse, temperature)
- Performing household tasks (e.g. preparing meals and cleaning)
- Providing care and support for individuals with dementia and other health issues
- Delivering activities that promote emotional, social, physical, and intellectual stimulation
- Transporting clients to appointments and social engagements
- Implementing care plans
- Liaising with other health care professionals, family members and carers.
6. Average Employee
People from all walks of life can become successful aged care workers, but here’s a quick snapshot of the average aged care employee in Australia according to statistics:
- 175,800 workers
- 36% of these work full-time
- Average age is 45 years
- 77% are female.
7. Aged Care Courses and Qualifications
Most roles in the aged care industry require a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification. In fact, around 3 in 5 workers in the industry hold this qualification.
If you’re interested in an aged care course in Australia, a Certificate IV in Ageing Support is the nationally accredited qualification you need to open opportunities in the aged care industry.
8. Funding Options
You may be eligible for funding support under the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive Program, the Certificate 3 Guarantee subsidy, or Higher Level Skills Funding.
You can learn more about funding for your aged care course in Australia here.
Think you’d love a job where you’re making a real difference in people’s lives? You can find out more about a Certificate IV in Ageing Support with MyPath Education here, or give us a call to chat about your learning options in person: 07 3489 7777