The Aged care sector is an amazing career for those passionate about making a difference.  If you are thinking about getting qualified in this area, there is no better time than now.

The aged care industry is in desperate need of a skilled workforce, with a looming shortage of at least 110,000 aged care workers over the coming decade.  A recent Royal Commission report made 148 recommendations to overhaul the system including boosting pay and conditions for aged care workers.

“We’ve known about the problems with chronic, widespread understaffing. When you have ratios such as one registered nurse to 150 residents or 200 residents or no registered nurse at all, and personal care workers responsible, one worker responsible for 20, 30, 40, even more residents at times, it is simply impossible to deliver safe quality care.” ANMF Federal Government Secretary Annie Butler, CareAbout.

Data shows that in the future 1.2 million people over the age of 85 will require care and assistance with daily living and, a larger proportion of this group will require greater levels of care. The Australian Productivity Commission (2011) has also projected the need for an additional 105,000 residential care beds over the next 15 years.

In fact, at least 17,000 more direct aged care workers will be needed in Australia each year over the next 10 years “just to meet basic standards of care” for our ageing population.  This includes residential aged care facilities, home support and other care services.

In this year’s budget, the Australian Government announced a $17.7 billion aged care package in response to the alarming findings of the aged care royal commission.

How to make a start in this rewarding industry?

The aged care sector needs thousands of people who want to join the industry and make a positive difference in other people’s lives.  That means it offers the right people an amazing opportunity to work toward a rewarding job, with huge job prospects.

Can you see yourself giving our older people the assistance and respect they deserve? Do you want to provide our ageing population with life-changing care? Are you compassionate and believe our older generation still have plenty to offer our community?

There are a range of training courses to help you achieve a qualification to start/advance your career in aged care including:

1.  Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) – (go here to get a free info pack)
2. Certificate III in Individual Support (Home and Community) – (go here to get a free info pack)
3. Certificate IV in Ageing Support – (go here to get a free info pack)
4. Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) – (go here to get a free info pack)

These courses will qualify you for a variety of roles and responsibilities in aged care residential facilities, home support and other care services. They are also government-backed and nationally accredited.

What support do aged care workers provide?

Aged care services provide more than showering, shopping, cleaning and coffee dates. They provide our older generation with confidence, independence and quality of life. Giving a sense of purpose and something to look forward to regularly can also make a world of difference. They can continue to make their own choices, which gives a sense of empowerment.

The role you’ll play is essential. You’ll provide appreciated support in:

• domestic assistance like shopping, laundry, cleaning, paying bills or preparing meals
• personal care like help with eating, dressing, showering, hygiene or moving around the home
• physical care like exercising and moving
• transportation to and from appointments
• arranging and facilitating social outings

You’ll also be a valued and respected companion, providing mental, physical and emotional support, which can never be underestimated.

As Australia’s ageing population grows, the pressure for more spaces in aged care facilities will also become greater, so more Commonwealth Government funding is desperately needed.

Data shows that in the future 1.2 million people over the age of 85 will require care and assistance with daily living and, a larger proportion of this group will require greater levels of care. The Australian Productivity Commission (2011) has also projected the need for an additional 105,000 residential care beds over the next 15 years.

These findings mean there will be significant investment in aged care facilities and services, with subsequent demand for qualified aged care workers to support the increasing ageing population.

Gain employment and support our older Australians

Now is the time to get involved in the aged care sector. Becoming part of the ever-increasing aged care workforce and supporting our ageing Australian community is one of the most satisfying and rewarding careers you can have.

The aged care sector is one of the most diverse and inclusive industries in Australia and is constantly looking for qualified, skilled workers. The Australian Government’s financial support also means more can be done to assist the facilities, services and workers.

Become part of this expanding and respected sector and make a difference to the lives of our ageing population. Your community will thank you for it.

Enrol in one of our Community Care courses today and start making a difference!

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