If you’re planning to migrate to Australia and want a career that offers job security, strong income potential, and long-term growth, you might be surprised to know that aged care jobs in Australia are among the fastest-growing and most in-demand opportunities today.
So, why is everyone talking about the Australian aged care sector?
Australia’s rapidly ageing population has created an urgent need for skilled professionals who can support the health, comfort, and well-being of elderly individuals.
Australia is expected to need 400,000 additional aged care workers by 2050 due to its ageing population
What makes this field even more attractive is that many aged care job vacancies in Australia are open to international students and migrants, offering clear career progression and potential migration pathways. However, entering this industry requires understanding the right qualifications, job requirements, and opportunities available.
In this guide, we’ll help you explore everything you need to know about aged care jobs in Australia.
What Are Aged Care Jobs in Australia?
Aged care jobs in Australia involve providing support, assistance, and healthcare services to elderly individuals who need help with their daily living, health management, and overall well-being.
These roles focus on improving the quality of life for older people by offering physical, emotional, and social support across different care settings.
As the ageing population continues to grow, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is increasing across residential facilities, community services, and in-home care environments.
Why Aged Care Jobs Are in High Demand in Australia?
The demand for aged care jobs in Australia is growing rapidly due to several key factors, making the sector one of the most stable and opportunity-rich career paths.
Australia’s Ageing Population
Australia’s elderly population is increasing as people live longer, creating a greater need for healthcare, personal support, and assisted living services. This has significantly increased demand for aged care workers across residential, community, and home care settings.
Workforce Shortages
The aged care sector is facing a shortage of skilled professionals, leading to rising aged care job vacancies in Australia.
Government Investment in Aged Care
The Australian government continues to invest in improving aged care services and expanding the workforce, creating more employment opportunities and better career prospects.
Job Stability and Career Growth Opportunities
Aged care offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and clear career progression. Professionals can grow from entry-level roles to specialized healthcare positions, making it a reliable long-term career choice.
Types of Aged Care Jobs in Australia
The aged care sector in Australia offers a wide range of career opportunities depending on your qualifications, experience, and career goals. From entry-level support roles to specialized healthcare positions, each role involves supporting elderly individuals with their daily needs, health, and overall well-being.
4.1 Aged Care Assistant Jobs Australia
Aged care assistants provide basic care and support to elderly individuals in residential aged care facilities or nursing homes. This is one of the most common entry-level roles in the aged care sector.
Job Roles Include
- Assisting with daily activities (bathing, dressing, eating)
- Supporting mobility and hygiene
- Providing companionship and emotional support
- Monitoring health conditions and reporting changes
Average Salary
- Around AUD $50,000 – $65,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
PR Opportunities
- Often eligible under skilled occupation pathways.
- Can support migration through employer sponsorship or the General Skilled Migration Scheme with relevant qualifications like Certificate III in Individual Support.
4.2 Aged Care Support Worker Jobs
Aged care support workers provide personal and practical assistance to elderly individuals either at home or in community care settings.
Job Roles Include
- Helping with household tasks and meal preparation
- Supporting daily living activities
- Providing emotional and social support
- Assisting with health routines and medication reminders
Average Salary
- Around AUD $55,000 – $70,000 per year.
PR Opportunities
- Strong demand improves eligibility for employer-sponsored visas.
- Recognized under several healthcare and community support occupation categories.
4.3 Aged Care Nursing Jobs Australia
Aged care nurses provide medical care and supervision for elderly patients, typically working in hospitals or aged care facilities. This role requires professional nursing qualifications.
Job Roles Include
- Administering medication and treatment
- Monitoring patient health conditions
- Developing care plans
- Supervising care staff
Average Salary
- Around AUD $70,000 – $95,000+ per year, depending on specialization.
PR Opportunities
- Strong PR pathways through Australia’s skilled occupation list.
- Registered nurses are highly sought after for permanent residency.
4.4 Personal Care Assistant Jobs
Personal care assistants focus on supporting elderly individuals with personal hygiene, comfort, and daily activities. This role is similar to aged care assistants but focuses more on individual personal care.
Job Roles Include
- Assisting with grooming and hygiene
- Supporting mobility and physical care
- Monitoring health and well-being
- Providing companionship
Average Salary
- Around AUD $50,000 – $68,000 per year.
PR Opportunities
- Eligible for migration pathways with relevant training and work experience.
4.5 Home Care Jobs
Home care workers assist elderly individuals who prefer to live independently at home rather than in residential facilities.
Job Roles Include
- Household support and meal preparation
- Medication reminders
- Transport assistance
- Personal care services
Average Salary
- Around AUD $55,000 – $72,000 per year.
PR Opportunities
- Increasing demand improves job sponsorship opportunities.
- Can lead to long-term migration options with experience and certification.
4.6 Disability and Aged Care Jobs Australia
These roles support elderly individuals with disabilities or age-related conditions, combining aged care and disability support services.
Job Roles Include
- Supporting individuals with physical or mental disabilities
- Providing therapy assistance and rehabilitation support
- Helping with daily living and personal care
- Promoting independence and social participation
Average Salary
- Around AUD $60,000 – $75,000 per year.
PR Opportunities
- High demand in Australia’s healthcare and community services sector.
- Strong migration pathways through skilled and employer-sponsored visa programs.
How to Get Aged Care Jobs in Australia (Step-by-Step Guide)?
If you want to build a career in the aged care sector in Australia, understanding the right qualifications, job requirements, and application process is essential.
Step 1: Understand Aged Care Job Requirements in Australia
Before applying, you must meet the basic aged care jobs Australia requirements set by employers and government regulations.
✔ Basic Requirements
- Minimum age (usually 18+)
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Compassionate and patient nature
- Physical fitness for caregiving tasks
- Basic English language proficiency
✔ Core Skills Required
- Personal care assistance
- Emotional support and communication
- Time management
- Health and safety awareness
- Problem-solving skills
Even if you apply for aged care jobs in Australia without experience, employers expect strong soft skills and a willingness to learn.
Step 2: Get the Required Qualifications
Most employers prefer candidates with formal training in aged care or healthcare support.
✔ Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), Most Recommended
This is the standard qualification for entry-level roles like:
- aged care assistant jobs Australia
- personal care assistant jobs
- aged care support worker jobs
Duration: 6–12 months
Can be completed in Australia or approved institutions overseas.
Other Relevant Qualifications
- Certificate IV in Ageing Support
- Nursing qualification (for aged care nursing jobs in Australia)
- Community services training
- Disability support certification
Step 3: Meet Compliance and Legal Requirements
To work in the aged care sector in Australia, you must complete certain checks and legal requirements.
- Police Clearance Check
- Working with Vulnerable People Check
- National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Check
- First Aid and CPR Certification
- Health Checks & Vaccinations
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
When applying for aged care job vacancies in Australia, keep these documents ready:
- Updated resume (Australian format)
- Educational certificates and training documents
- Certificate III or relevant qualification
- Work experience proof (if available)
- Police clearance certificate
- Identification documents (passport)
- English language test results (IELTS/PTE if required)
- Professional references
Having complete documentation improves hiring chances.
Step 5: Understand Visa and Work Eligibility (For Migrants)
If you are applying from overseas, you must have legal work rights in Australia.
Common pathways include:
- Student visa with work rights
- Employer-sponsored visa
- Skilled migration programs
- General Skilled Migration Scheme
Many migrants explore aged care jobs in Australia with sponsorship, especially in high-demand roles.
For accurate visa guidance, applicants often consult a Registered migration agent in Adelaide or a MARA agent in Australia, such as Visafast Migration Consultancy, to understand eligibility and migration pathways.
Step 6: Gain Practical Experience (Optional but Helpful)
Although some entry-level roles accept beginners, experience improves job prospects.
Ways to gain experience:
- Internships or training placements
- Volunteer work in aged care facilities
- Healthcare assistant roles
- Community care work
This step is especially helpful for those seeking certificate III aged care jobs in Australia.
Step 7: Apply for Aged Care Job Vacancies in Australia
Once qualified, start applying through:
✔ Job Portals
- Seek Australia
- Indeed Australia
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Healthcare recruitment agencies
✔ Direct Employer Applications
- Aged care homes
- Community care providers
- Hospitals
- Home care service companies
Tailor your resume for each role.
Step 8: Prepare for Interviews
Employers usually assess:
- Communication skills
- Compassion and empathy
- Problem-solving ability
- Understanding of elderly care
- Knowledge of safety and care standards
Prepare examples of caregiving situations or customer service experiences.
Future Scope of the Australian Aged Care Industry
The future of the Australian aged care industry is highly promising, driven by strong demand, government reforms, and rapid population ageing.
The aged care market is projected to grow significantly, reaching over USD 61 billion by 2034, supported by increased government funding, home-based care services, and workforce expansion. The number of Australians aged 70 and above is also expected to rise by nearly 68% between 2024 and 2044, further increasing the demand for skilled professionals.
Expert Tip fromVisafast Migration Consultancy: With the growing demand and workforce shortages in aged care, qualified professionals may benefit from long-term career stability and potential migration pathways. Consulting a registered migration agent in Adelaide can help you better understand eligibility requirements and explore suitable visa options for aged care careers in Australia.
Final Thoughts
With strong demand, long-term career stability, and clear migration pathways, aged care jobs in Australia offer a rewarding opportunity for individuals looking to build a meaningful and secure future.
From entry-level roles to specialized positions, the industry provides diverse career options, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth.
However, understanding the right qualifications, job requirements, and visa pathways is essential to successfully start your career in Australia’s aged care sector.
So, if you are considering migration or exploring aged care career opportunities in Australia, consulting experienced professionals like Visafast Migration Consultancy, a registered migration agent in Adelaide, can help you understand your eligibility, explore suitable visa options, and take the right steps toward achieving your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get aged care jobs in Australia?
To get aged care jobs in Australia, you typically need relevant qualifications like Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), complete mandatory checks (police clearance, First Aid, NDIS check), and apply for aged care job vacancies in Australia through job portals or employers. International applicants must also meet visa and work eligibility requirements.
What qualifications are required for aged care jobs in Australia?
Most entry-level roles require a Certificate III in aged care jobs Australia qualification, such as Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). Additional requirements may include English proficiency, police checks, First Aid certification, and relevant training, depending on the role.
Do aged care jobs in Australia offer PR pathways?
Yes, many aged care sector jobs in Australia can provide pathways to permanent residency through skilled migration programs or employer-sponsored visas, especially for qualified and experienced aged care workers.
Can international students get aged care jobs in Australia?
Yes, aged care jobs in Australia for international students are available if they have valid work rights and relevant qualifications. Many students study aged care courses like Certificate III and work part-time or full-time after completing their training.
Can I get aged care jobs in Australia without experience?
Yes, some employers offer aged care jobs in Australia without experience for entry-level roles, especially if you have completed basic training like Certificate III and demonstrate strong communication and caregiving skills.
What is the salary of aged care worker jobs in Australia?
The average aged care worker's salary ranges from AUD $50,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and job role. Specialized roles such as nursing may offer higher salaries.
.
