As Australia’s population ages, there is a growing need for aged care workers. That, according to the Australian government, means the number of professional aged care workers is likely to double over the next five years. As a result, the industry can offer stable employment with great prospects and a highly rewarding career with a number of challenging jobs.
The COVID-19 pandemic affecting aged care workers has revealed some deficiencies in the provision of aged care that will necessitate changes in the way it is delivered. These changes give you the opportunity to get in at the start of a potentially exciting phase of development.
What you need to be an Aged Care Worker in 2021
An aged care worker will give support to elderly people. This can include:
- helping with daily, personal tasks such as eating, bathing and getting dressed
- cleaning, shopping and preparing food
- providing transport and assisting with mobility
- giving social support and organising activities.
The aim, in general, is to help people live as active and independent a life as is possible, either in their own homes or in some kind of care facility. Carers ensure the well-being of the people they care for and that they are contented and well looked after.
Have you had experience caring for elderly people?
To be an aged care worker, you must really want to work with older people and give them a better quality of life. Employers look for workers who are patient and discrete, are fit enough to do the job, have good communication skills and have a caring personality.
Do I need to complete a course at University or Tafe?
To get a job in the industry, you don’t necessarily need a formal qualification although a Certificate III or IV in Individual Support (Ageing) or similar is likely to ensure you get a better job; some employers insist on formal qualifications because they are proof of proper training
You will need to submit a criminal history check
You will need a National Criminal History Check certificate that states you have no convictions for crimes that are likely to put elderly people at risk; you get this from any ACIC accredited provider through an online service. You should have a driving licence or some means of transport if you work in people’s homes or at various centres and ideally should obtain a first aid certificate so you can give basic first aid if there is a medical emergency.
Getting a Start as an Aged Care Worker
Getting started in any industry is normally the most difficult part and aged care is no exception, although you will have more chance if you approach the situation with purpose. Obtain a formal qualification through a registered training organisation so you have a good grounding in aged care and know how to work safely, ethically and legally.
You will generally start as a trainee and will increase your responsibilities as you gain experience. You can also gain experience, which adds to your résumé, by working as a volunteer for a period.
At PROVIDERplus, we supply the support and guidance you need to get started in the aged care industry. Once you achieve that, we can help you to further your career and progress in an expanding and rewarding industry.
PROVIDERplus can help providers through the NDIS Screening process, NDIS audit process, as well help providers work through their NDIS renewal applications.
