Aged Care Courses

What is aged care?

Aged care is a vital part of the health care sector that caters to the needs of older adults. It encompasses a wide range of services, from personal care and household tasks to nursing and medical assistance. You can also work in a variety of care settings, including residential and in-home care.

Aged care workers have an important role to play. They are tasked with supporting the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of older adults, ensuring they get the best possible care and quality of life.

Aged care worker industry

The demand for aged care workers is expected to grow 28% by 2026 due to the ageing population in Australia, with an estimated 25% of the population aged 65 and over by 2056. This will create a significant demand for aged care services, making it a stable industry with strong job security for those who are interested in pursuing a career in this field.

Only 32% of workers are full-time, as it’s more common to work on a part-time basis. The average aged care worker’s salary is $50,000 – $60,000, which is an hourly rate of $25-$35. However, the average salary for an aged care worker in Australia ranges between $70,000 and $80,000 per annum. Being qualified can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay within the aged care sector.

Workers and students in the aged care industry are supported through a range of resources and services, including academic, personal, and workplace support, to help them succeed in their roles.

Types of aged care courses

Certificate III in Individual Support

This nationally recognised, entry-level qualification focuses on the basic principles of personal care, emotional support, and assisting older people in residential aged care facilities or through community care. It provides students with essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the aged care industry.

The course may also recognise prior learning or relevant work experience, allowing you to accelerate your qualification. Enrol now to start your career in aged care.

Certificate IV in Ageing Support

This course delves deeper into specialised tasks such as chronic disease management, palliative approach, and supporting independence in aged care settings. The curriculum is designed to implement current industry regulations and ethical standards, ensuring students are prepared for real-world requirements. It is designed for those seeking to expand their expertise and take on more advanced roles in the sector.

Certificate IV in Leisure and Health

This qualification prepares students to design and deliver leisure and health programs that enhance the quality of life for older people in aged care facilities. The program also addresses the mental health needs of older people, recognising mental health as a vital aspect of overall wellbeing in aged care. It is tailored for those interested in promoting wellbeing through recreational and therapeutic activities.

Which course should you choose?

Each of these aged care courses is tailored to different career goals, whether you want to become a care assistant, community care worker, or pursue more advanced roles in the sector. By completing these courses, students are well-prepared for a rewarding career, equipped with the training and knowledge to make a real difference in the lives of older Australians.

What aged care worker jobs can I do?

There are various aged care jobs, from entry-level roles to more advanced positions, offering diverse career opportunities for graduates of aged care training programs. Some examples include:

• Personal care assistant
• Home care worker
• Aged care support worker
• Individual support worker
• Enrolled nurse
• Registered nurse
• Aged care manager

Aged care worker duties and responsibilities

An aged care worker has a variety of duties and responsibilities. These depend on their role and the level of care they offer. Some roles focus on direct care, which involves hands-on assistance with daily living activities. Some common duties include:

• Assisting with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Preparing and serving meals, and providing assistance with eating and drinking
• Performing household tasks, such as cleaning, laundry, and shopping
• Administering medication and monitoring health conditions
• Providing emotional support and companionship, and engaging clients in activities
• Liaising with other healthcare professionals and family members

What course should I do to become an aged care worker?

To become an aged care worker, you can study the entry-level qualification Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). This course provides you with the skill set and knowledge needed to work in aged care, disability care, and home and community care.

The Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) is a minimum requirement for many aged care facilities in Australia. It covers topics such as:

• Providing individualised support and care to clients
• Supporting independence and wellbeing
• Working with cultural diversity
• Implementing infection prevention and control procedures
• Communicating effectively with clients, families, and colleagues

Certificate IV in Ageing Support is also a popular course and builds on Certificate III. In this course you’ll learn about:

• Dementia and palliative care
• Implementing interventions with older people at risk
• Providing person-centred support services
• Meeting personal needs
• Supporting independence and wellbeing

If you are unsure which course is right for you or want more details about entry requirements, enquire today to get more information about your options.

Entry requirements and recommendations

Entry requirements for aged care courses can vary depending on who you study with and what course you do. Generally, students are expected to have completed a certain level of education, such as a high school certificate. Specific entry requirements may include:

• Undertaking a language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) assessment to ensure preparedness for the course content.
• Previous experience in health or community services may be recommended or required for some courses, although this is not always mandatory.
• Completion of a minimum of 120 logged working hours within an approved service as part of the qualification in aged care training courses.

Continuous education and professional development

Ongoing education and professional development are crucial for aged care workers who want to stay current with industry standards and best practices. Many institutions offer a range of professional development opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and online courses focused on topics such as infection prevention, chronic disease management, and palliative care. These programs help aged care workers expand their skills, deepen their knowledge, and adapt to the evolving needs of older people.

Is aged care right for you?

Being a carer in the aged care sector is a challenging yet rewarding career. It requires compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others. If you’re a people person who enjoys taking care of others, then aged care might be the perfect career for you.

With the right aged care training, you can create a fulfilling career as an aged care worker and make a positive impact. Enquire about an aged care course today!