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How to Become a Care Assistant in Australia: careers in Aged Care

5 Courses

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Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)

Explore a career in disability support with the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), offered by Open Colleges in partnership with Integrated Care & Management Training (RTO: 90197). Additionally, Open Colleges’ Guaranteed Work Placement initiative makes finding required work placement easy.

This course is designed for beginners, equipping you with the practical skills needed to empower people with disabilities, enhance wellbeing, and foster independence. With 160 hours of work placement, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience.

35o hours of work placement is required to complete this course – made easy with Open Colleges’ Guaranteed Work Placement initiative. In partnership with leading provider SkilTrak, Open Colleges organises your work placement for you while you focus on study, ensuring students gain real-world experience in their dream career – close to home.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service course, it is not government funded.

Online, Workplace

Varies

Online

Self paced - up to 12 months

Career Outcomes

Accommodation Support Worker

Care Assistant

Community Care Worker

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) from Open Colleges, in collaboration with Integrated Care & Management Training (RTO: 90197), offers an ideal starting point for those passionate about working in aged care. This comprehensive course provides the knowledge needed to support older people effectively and meet legal and ethical care standards. Additionally, Open Colleges’ Guaranteed Work Placement initiative makes finding required work placement easy.

Delivered 100% online with 160 hours of industry placement, this program ensures you graduate ready to work in real-world care settings.

160 hours of work placement is required to complete this course – made easy with Open Colleges’ Guaranteed Work Placement initiative. In partnership with leading provider SkilTrak, Open Colleges organises your work placement for you while you focus on study, ensuring students gain real-world experience in their dream career – close to home.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service course, it is not government funded.

Online, Workplace

Varies

Online

Self paced - up to 12 months

Career Outcomes

Accommodation Support Worker

Aged Care Worker

Care Assistant

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) (WA only)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), offered by Insight Training, is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to support people with disabilities. This course focuses on key learning areas such as providing person-centred care, understanding the rights of individuals with disabilities, and developing effective communication strategies. Participants will gain practical insights into the various support needs of individuals, enabling them to foster independence and enhance the quality of life for those they assist.

Throughout the course, learners will engage in a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing them for real-world scenarios in the disability support sector. The curriculum covers vital topics including the principles of support work, health and safety practices, and the importance of teamwork in delivering quality care. By the end of the program, graduates will be well-prepared to enter the workforce as competent and compassionate support workers, making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

This qualification not only opens doors to various career opportunities within the disability sector but also lays a strong foundation for further studies in health and community services. Enquire to learn more about how this course can help shape a rewarding career in individual support.

After achieving this qualification, students may undertake the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability.

This course is delivered in-classroom at one of Insight Training’s campuses:

Joondalup (day classes available)
Morley (evening classes available)

120 hours of work placement is also required.

Please Note: This course is NOT available to people on a 500 or 600 visa.

Accommodation Support Worker

Care Assistant

Care Service Employee

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) On Campus QLD only

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) On Campus offered by KCA Education is designed for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of those requiring assistance. This comprehensive course equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to provide individual support to people in need, particularly in the ageing and disability sectors. Over a duration of 16 weeks, students will engage in 12 weeks of face-to-face classroom training, complemented by a 4-week supervised work placement in an approved care organisation, ensuring practical experience in real-world settings.

Key learning areas of the course include understanding the needs of clients, effective communication, and the provision of personal care. Students will also explore the ethical and legal considerations in the support of individuals, preparing them for various roles such as Care Assistant, Home Care Assistant, and Residential Support Worker. With the projected demand for aged and disability care workers expected to rise significantly, this qualification positions graduates for rewarding career opportunities in a growing field. Enquire to learn more.

Class times are Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4pm.

Government Funding Options
You may be able to study at a reduced cost with government funding. There are two pathways to access subsidised training:

Standard Funding – If you’re a Queensland resident and have not yet completed a Certificate III or higher, KCA Education can confirm your eligibility and assist with your enrolment.
Second Chance Funding (C3G Plus) – If you’ve already completed a Certificate III or higher and don’t qualify for standard funding, you may still be eligible. This option requires an additional step – before enrolling, you’ll need to apply through the Back to Work Pre-employment Program. If approved, you can then enrol with a training provider under C3G Plus funding.

Please Note: This course is only available to students in Queensland, and is NOT available to people on 500 or 600 visas.

Care Service Employee

Home Care Assistant

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) Virtual Classroom (QLD only)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) Online, offered by KCA Education, is designed for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. This comprehensive course equips students with the essential skills and knowledge required to provide individual support to those needing assistance in their daily lives. With a focus on both theoretical understanding and practical application, learners will engage in a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on work placement, ensuring they are well-prepared for a rewarding career in the aged and disability care sector.

This course requires full-time attendance in scheduled online virtual classes over a few months, replicating a face-to-face experience. It is NOT self-paced, so unsuitable for those looking for a flexible course.

Virtual class times are Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4pm, and require full-time attendance.

Spanning 16 weeks, the course includes 12 weeks of Virtual Online Classroom Access complemented by 120 hours of supervised work placement in an approved care organisation. Key learning areas encompass person-centred care, communication skills, and the ability to support individuals with diverse needs, all of which are crucial in fostering a supportive environment for clients.

As the demand for aged and disability care workers is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, this qualification opens doors to various career opportunities, including roles as a Care Assistant, Residential Aide, and Home Care Assistant. Graduates will emerge with the confidence and competence to excel in their chosen field. Enquire to learn more.

The Virtual Online Classroom option for this course is only available to Queensland students who live too far from the KCA Education’s Browns Plains campus. There is an On Campus version available for those who can travel to the campus.

Government Funding Options
You may be able to study at a reduced cost with government funding. There are two pathways to access subsidised training:

Standard Funding – If you’re a Queensland resident and have not yet completed a Certificate III or higher, KCA Education can confirm your eligibility and assist with your enrolment.
Second Chance Funding (C3G Plus) – If you’ve already completed a Certificate III or higher and don’t qualify for standard funding, you may still be eligible. This option requires an additional step – before enrolling, you’ll need to apply through the Back to Work Pre-employment Program. If approved, you can then enrol with a training provider under C3G Plus funding.

Please note: This course is only available to students in Queensland, and is NOT available to people on 500 or 600 visas.

Care Service Employee

Home Care Assistant

Definition of a Care Assistant

The role of a Care Assistant is both rewarding and vital in the healthcare sector, providing essential support to individuals who may require assistance with daily living activities. Care Assistants work in various settings, including aged care facilities, hospitals, and clients’ homes, ensuring that those in their care receive the attention and support they need to maintain their quality of life. This career is perfect for compassionate individuals who enjoy helping others and want to make a positive impact in their community.

Care Assistants are responsible for a wide range of tasks that contribute to the well-being of their clients. They assist with personal care needs such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, ensuring that individuals feel comfortable and dignified. Additionally, they help with mobility, meal preparation, and medication management, all while fostering a supportive and encouraging environment. By participating in care planning and following therapy plans, Care Assistants play a crucial role in the rehabilitation and recovery of their clients.

In this dynamic role, Care Assistants also observe and report any changes in their clients’ conditions, which is essential for timely medical intervention. Their keen attention to detail and ability to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals ensure that clients receive the best possible care. The position requires a blend of empathy, patience, and strong interpersonal skills, making it an ideal career for those who thrive in nurturing environments.

Overall, a career as a Care Assistant offers the opportunity to build meaningful relationships while providing essential support to those in need. With a growing demand for healthcare services, this profession not only promises job stability but also the chance to contribute positively to the lives of others. For individuals seeking a fulfilling career that combines compassion with practical support, becoming a Care Assistant is a commendable choice.

On this Page

What Will I Do

What Skills Do I Need

Career Snapshot

Resources

What does a Care Assistant do?

Care Assistants play a vital role in providing essential support to individuals in various healthcare settings, including aged care facilities and private homes. Their responsibilities encompass a range of personal care tasks, ensuring that clients receive the assistance they need to maintain their dignity and quality of life. This profession is characterised by compassion, patience, and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of those they serve.

Assists with personal care needs – Helps clients with activities such as showering, dressing, eating, and mobility.
Participates in care planning – Collaborates with healthcare professionals to develop and implement individual care plans.
Follows therapy plans – Implements interventions for clients with conditions like dementia and behavioural issues.
Observes and reports changes – Monitors clients’ conditions and communicates any significant changes to the healthcare team.
Reports complaints about care – Addresses and escalates any concerns raised by clients or their families regarding the care provided.
Assists with rehabilitation exercises – Supports clients in performing prescribed rehabilitation exercises and basic treatments.
Delivers medications – Administers medications as per the prescribed guidelines and ensures proper documentation.

What skills do I need to be a Care Assistant?

A career as a Care Assistant requires a unique blend of skills that are essential for providing compassionate and effective support to individuals in need. Key skills include strong communication abilities, which facilitate clear interactions with clients, families, and healthcare professionals. Empathy and patience are crucial, as Care Assistants often work with individuals facing physical or emotional challenges. Additionally, practical skills in personal care, such as assisting with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility, are fundamental to the role. Understanding and following care plans, as well as being observant to report any changes in a client’s condition, are also vital components of the job.

Moreover, Care Assistants must possess problem-solving skills to address the diverse needs of their clients effectively. Time management is essential, as they often juggle multiple responsibilities within a limited timeframe. A commitment to ongoing learning and adaptability is also important, given the evolving nature of healthcare practices and technologies. Overall, a successful Care Assistant combines technical skills with a genuine desire to improve the quality of life for those they serve, making this role both rewarding and impactful.

Skills/attributes

Compassion and Empathy
Strong Communication Skills
Patience and Understanding
Attention to Detail
Physical Stamina and Strength
Ability to Follow Care Plans
Problem-Solving Skills
Teamwork and Collaboration
Basic Medical Knowledge
Time Management Skills
Respect for Diversity
Adaptability and Flexibility
Emotional Resilience
Basic Computer Skills
Willingness to Learn and Develop

Does this sound like you?

Career Snapshot for a Care Assistant

The role of a Personal Care Assistant is vital in providing essential support to individuals in various healthcare settings, including aged care facilities and private homes. This career is characterised by a strong demand for compassionate individuals who can assist with daily living activities and contribute to the overall well-being of their clients.

Average Age: 43 years
Gender Distribution: 86% female
Hours Worked: 33% work full-time, with an average of 42 hours per week
Median Weekly Earnings: Approximately $1,200 (annual salary around $62,400)
Unemployment Rate: Low, with a strong demand for workers in this field
Employment Numbers: Approximately 42,300 individuals are employed as Personal Care Assistants
Projected Growth: The sector is expected to grow significantly due to an ageing population and increased demand for personal care services

As the healthcare landscape evolves, Personal Care Assistants will continue to play a crucial role in supporting individuals with their daily needs, making this a rewarding career choice for those looking to make a positive impact in their communities.

Source: ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing

Aged Care Career resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

- Northern Territory PHN
- Make a difference in remote health | NT Remote Locum Program

ACT

TAS

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