Do you like helping older people? Do you have good communication skills? These qualities can lead you to a very fulfilling and rewarding career in Australia as an Aged Care worker. An average Aged carer earns $21 per hour!
Aged care jobs in the land of kangaroos is considered one of the most challenging jobs. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is increasing. In this blog, we will discuss the things you need to know before considering a career in this sector.
With the growing aged population, the demand for professional support is increasing proportionally. The Australian government has predicted that there will be an approximate 179,000 job openings in the next five years, and the number of people required will also double in the coming years.
So, if you are considering choosing it as a career in your future, rest assured that the chances of unemployment will be very less. The future growth is substantial. The minimum qualification for Aged Care Industry is Cert III or IV.
What are the Responsibilities of an Aged Carer?
The duties or responsibilities of an Aged carer include but are not completely limited to:
- Assisting in mobility
- Accompanying in daily activities
- Preparing food
- Organising social activities
- Housekeeping tasks like cleaning or vacuuming
- Taking care of their hygiene
- Providing emotional support and companionship
- Going shopping or other activities
Major Roles in Aged Care
Roles in aged care can vary. Within the industry, there are many different roles which may suit the skills and personality of a caregiver. You can work as a Personal Caregiver. On the other hand, your role could be at a residential Aged Care Industry facility where you need to provide nursing support. You may also choose a community-based aged care provider or respite care role as well.
In community care, residential or respite care, the worker needs to report to the registered nurse or work according to their direction. Later, your role can shift from direct caregiver to oversee team members' jobs or to manage the overall operations.
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Aged care worker:
In this job, the caregiver provides support in aged care homes, often to They assist or respond to the needs that are beyond the abilities of the clients like cooking, cleaning, .etc -
Residential support worker:
This is also known as a Personal Caregiver. In this role, carers provide home support to the elderly. They take care of or assist them with daily chores. You can even live with the client and provide round the clock care or frequently visit the client. It depends on the clients’ requirement. -
Community support worker:
As a community support worker, you work with disabled or older people and encourage them to take part in community support programs, which are planned, developed and implemented by you and other workers. -
Assistant in Nursing:
An assistant in nursing provides healthcare support to professional doctors or registered nurses. -
Registered Nurse:
Registered nurses also work in aged care facilities to promote health and wellness.
Requirements for a job in Aged Care
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Educational Qualifications
A qualification may not always be strictly required to work in aged care. However, employers often prefer someone who has a certificate course to ensure that they have the proper training. One can obtain Certificate III or IV to work in aged care in Australia.
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Criminal History Check
One needs to obtain a National Criminal History Check certificate as per the Aged Care Act 1997. According to the Act, the implementation of guidelines complements rigorous recruiting practices. It ensures that all staff and volunteers are appropriate to care for the elderly and is not convicted for any crimes which may put the safety of the aged/disabled at risk.
Where can you obtain a National Criminal History Check?
Obtaining an NCHC certificate is easier than ever with ACIC accredited providers like KONCHECK. KONCHECK is a 100% online service that is fast, affordable and secure.
It's more than being a carer. It's a very fulfilling career that will leave you knowing that you've improved the lives of other people, whether by allowing them to stay as long as possible in their own home or by providing them with intensive support in a high-care facility.