Aged care sector in urgent need of new workers

If you have ever considered working as a carer for some of Australia’s most vulnerable citizens, it may be time to act. According to worldwide trends, now more than ever is the time to start a career in aged care.

The aged care sector is currently facing a high demand for skilled workers. The June 2021 Intergenerational Report conducted by Josh Frydenberg projects that the population will “grow slower and age faster”, in part due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Revitalisation in the field is absolutely critical to meet the demand for high quality and meaningful care for an ageing population.

In response to the recent Royal Commission into aged care quality and safety, the government has promised a $17.7 billion package and the formulation of a new Aged Care Act, revising the 1997 version. The new act is to be put in place by the 1st of July 2023 and puts an emphasis on a simpler and more equitable means testing, allowing more people have access to quality care within their budget.

Also included is a focus towards maintaining independence and encouraging social participation, with a higher quality of care demanded from facilities, nursing homes, and care providers. The right for an individual to make choices about their own care and to retain their autonomy within the care system are also enshrined.

More skilled workers needed

This overhaul of the aged care system means that new blood is desperately needed. Many facilities will employ more staff and more skilled workers, and it is predicted that Australia will need 17,000 more direct aged-care workers per year over the next decade, “just to meet basic standards of care”.

The “damning” results of the royal commission showed a lack of transparency and oversight in the system, leading to many cases of neglect and misconduct. The overhaul seeks to encourage new passionate workers to enter the field with higher starting wages for workers, as well as promising more training and professional development.

The transformation of the aged care industry sees an elevation of its status within general public health. The priority it is being given reflects worldwide trends. An analysis done by the World Economic Forum concludes that 40% of projected growth in job opportunities will be within the care sector, of which aged care is a big part.

With Australia only being one of many countries worldwide putting more funding into its aged care industry, a career in this field has the potential to take you further than ever before.

MCIE has courses specifically designed to get students job-ready and employable. Courses in Ageing Support and Individual Support will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality care at residential aged care facilities, nursing homes, and community care.

If you are interested in providing an enriching service to people most in need or want to find out more, give us a call at 1300 737 004 or email at info@mcie.edu.au or check out our website for courses on Aged Care and Individual Support.