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Australia’s care sector needs people. An ageing population and the growth of disability services mean aged care homes, home care providers and disability support organisations are hiring across the country, in cities and regional towns alike. If you are caring, patient and dependable, care work offers steady employment and real purpose.
Common roles
- Aged care worker or personal care assistant: helps residents or clients with daily living, such as showering, dressing, meals, mobility and companionship.
- Home care worker: visits older people in their homes to help with personal care, cleaning, shopping and transport.
- Disability support worker: supports people with disability to live independently, build skills and take part in the community.
- Team leader or coordinator: rosters staff, liaises with families and makes sure care plans are followed.
See current aged care jobs, disability support jobs and community support jobs on JobsRack.
Qualifications and checks
Requirements depend on the employer and the role, but these are common:
- A Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) or a related qualification. Some employers will hire you while you study.
- A current First Aid and CPR certificate.
- A National Police Check.
- For disability work, an NDIS Worker Screening Check.
- A driver’s licence and a reliable car for many home care and community roles.
Rules can change, so confirm current requirements with the employer and the relevant government websites.
Skills employers look for
- Patience, empathy and respect for each person’s choices and dignity.
- Reliability. Clients depend on you arriving on time.
- Clear communication and accurate notes.
- Flexibility with shifts, including weekends and evenings.
Shifts and pay
Care work is often offered as casual or part-time, with permanent roles available too. Weekend, evening and public holiday shifts usually attract higher penalty rates under the relevant award. Check the Fair Work Ombudsman website for current pay rates and conditions so you know your entitlements.
Tips for your application
- Put your certificates and checks near the top of your resume, with expiry dates.
- Describe the types of clients you have supported and the tasks you are confident with.
- List the languages you speak. Many providers serve multicultural communities.
- Include two referees who have seen you work with people.
Find care work on JobsRack
If you want work that matters, care is a great place to start. Explore the latest aged care jobs in Australia, create your free JobsRack profile, and apply in minutes.