How to Become a Personal Care Assistant: Australian Careers in Aged Care

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CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (VIC only)

If you possess a strong sense of compassion and would like to build a career based on helping people who need support, then the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support qualification from Phillips Institute could be an ideal course to get you started.

With an ageing population, demand for services of professional individual support providers in Australia is at an all time high, and this course will provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to join this rewarding and growing industry. You will learn essentials skills such as how to communicate and work in health or community services, how to provide individualised support and how to promote clients’ independence and well-being, how to provide support to people living with dementia and how to support community participation and social inclusion.

This course also involves 120 hours of practical work placement organised by Phillips Institute, designed to give you real world work experience and enable you to hit the ground running in any individual support role you may engage with on completion of the course.

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support qualification from the Phillips Institute is covered by Victorian Government’s Skills First funding. Please enquire now to see if you qualify for this government funded program.

Classroom, On Campus, Workplace

VIC

Aged Care Worker, Community Services Worker, Community Wellness Officer, Community Worker, Disability Support Coordinator, Disability Support Worker, Personal Care Assistant, Personal Care Worker

Price may vary

22-24 weeks full-time (two days per week) or 28 weeks part-time (one day plus one evening per week)

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) (Adelaide)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) from InterCare Training is ideal for individuals seeking to start a career in the industry, and for those with prior experience looking to enhance their skills. Through a combination of online and in-person delivery, this course prepares you to work primarily in residential aged care facilities or homes, following organisational guidelines and service plans. Day or night classes are available.

The course includes 15 units of theoretical and practical education along with 120 hours hands-on work placement in the field, to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge to embark on a rewarding career as a personal carer or support worker in the aged or disability sector.

At completion, you will have the foundational knowledge and understanding required to carry out activities related to an individualised plan, maintain personal care for people in an aged care setting, and work effectively in disability support, among other skills and hands-on experience in the aged and disability care field.

Please note: This course is not available to individuals on a 500 or 600 visa.

On Campus, Online

Adelaide, Online

Aged Care Worker, Disability Service Worker, Disability Support Coordinator, Disability Support Worker, Personal Care Assistant, Personal Care Worker

Price may vary

6-12 months

Not Available

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) (Greater Sydney Area)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) offered by h&h Accredited Training is designed for individuals seeking a fulfilling career in aged care. This course equips students with the essential skills to assist the elderly in their daily activities, ensuring they receive the professional support and quality care they deserve. With a focus on practical experience, students will engage in onsite work placements at partnering aged care facilities, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world settings and prepare for roles such as aged care worker, support worker, and personal care assistant.

Throughout the course, participants will cover a comprehensive curriculum that includes nine core units and six elective units, focusing on areas such as individualised support, empowerment, and the importance of communication in health services. Additionally, students will receive training in first aid, which is crucial for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those in their care. The course is flexible, offering various learning modes including on campus, distance, and online options, making it accessible to a wide range of learners.

As the Australian population continues to age, the demand for skilled professionals in the aged care sector is on the rise. By completing the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing Specialisation), students will not only gain valuable qualifications but also contribute positively to the lives of older Australians. Enquire to learn more about how this course can help kickstart a rewarding career in aged care.

This course can be studied 100% online, on h&h Accredited Training’s campus in Granville, NSW, or in distance mode (home-based with once-a-week access to one-on-one trainer support either at the campus or via video-conference).

120 hours of work placement is also required.

Government funding is available to eligible NSW residents.

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

On Campus, Online, Workplace

NSW, Online

Aged Care Worker, Care Worker, Personal Care Assistant, Support Worker

Price may vary

Up to 12 months

Not Available

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) (Greater Sydney Area)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) offered by h&h Accredited Training is designed for individuals aspiring to build a rewarding career in the Australian Disability sector. This qualification equips students with the essential skills and knowledge required to provide person-centred support in community and residential settings. Participants will learn to follow individualised care plans, ensuring that they can effectively support the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities, particularly in light of the growing demand for skilled professionals.

Throughout the course, students will engage in both theoretical learning and practical experience, including a mandatory 120 hours of work placement with partnering disability organisations. This hands-on approach not only reinforces the skills learned in the classroom but also enhances employability in various roles such as support worker, personal care assistant, and accommodation support worker. Additionally, the course includes vital training in first aid and the completion of necessary background checks, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.

With flexible delivery options including on campus, online, and distance education formats, h&h Accredited Training caters to diverse learning preferences, making it easier for students to fit their studies into their lives. The supportive environment and experienced trainers further enhance the learning experience, helping students to thrive in their journey towards a fulfilling career in disability support. Enquire to learn more.

120 hours of work placement is also required.

Government funding is available to eligible NSW residents.

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

On Campus, Online, Workplace

NSW, Online

Accommodation Support Worker, Care Worker, Personal Care Assistant, Support Worker

Price may vary

Up to 12 months

Not Available

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) (Greater Sydney Area)

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) offered by h&h Accredited Training is designed for individuals seeking a fulfilling career in the ageing and disability care sector. This qualification equips students with the essential skills to provide person-centred support in both community and residential settings. Participants will learn to follow individualised care plans, assist the elderly with daily activities, and deliver quality care that enhances the lives of Australians with disability.

Throughout the course, students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes nine core units and six elective units, covering vital topics such as communication in health services, working with diverse populations, and supporting independence and wellbeing. Practical experience is a key component, with a mandatory 120 hours of onsite work placement at partnering aged care or disability organisations, ensuring that graduates are job-ready and in high demand within the industry.

h&h Accredited Training also provides support in obtaining necessary checks, such as the National Police Check and NDIS Check, which are crucial for working in this sensitive field. With flexible learning options available, including on campus, distance, and online formats, students can tailor their education to fit their lifestyle. Enquire to learn more about how this qualification can help kickstart a rewarding career in individual support.

120 hours of work placement is also required.

Government funding is available to eligible NSW residents.

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

On Campus, Online, Workplace

NSW, Online

Accommodation Support Worker, Aged Care Worker, Care Worker, Disability Support Worker, Personal Care Assistant, Support Worker

Price may vary

Up to 12 months

On this page

What is a Personal Care Assistant?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Personal Care Assistant?

The role of a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) is both rewarding and essential in the healthcare sector. Personal Care Assistants provide vital support to individuals who may require assistance with daily living activities due to age, illness, or disability. They work in various settings, including residential aged care facilities, hospitals, and clients’ homes, ensuring that those in their care receive the attention and support they need to maintain their dignity and quality of life.

In this fulfilling career, Personal Care Assistants are responsible for a range of tasks that cater to the personal care needs of their clients. This includes assisting with bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation, as well as helping with mobility and communication. PCAs play a crucial role in observing and reporting any changes in their clients’ conditions, which is vital for ongoing care and treatment. They also participate in care planning, collaborating with healthcare professionals to ensure that each individual’s needs are met effectively.

Beyond personal care, PCAs often assist with rehabilitation exercises and follow therapy plans designed to support clients with specific health challenges, such as dementia or mobility issues. Their compassionate approach not only helps clients with physical tasks but also provides emotional support, fostering a sense of companionship and trust. This aspect of the role is particularly important, as it contributes to the overall well-being of clients, making them feel valued and understood.

As the demand for Personal Care Assistants continues to grow, this career offers numerous opportunities for those looking to make a positive impact in their communities. With flexible working hours and the chance to build meaningful relationships with clients, a career as a Personal Care Assistant is not only a job but a pathway to making a difference in the lives of others.

Career snapshots For Personal Care Assistants

The role of a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) is vital in providing essential support to individuals in various health care settings, including homes and facilities. This career is particularly appealing to those who are compassionate and enjoy helping others with their daily needs.

Average Age: 43 years
Gender Distribution: 86% female
Hours Worked: 42 hours per week (average full-time)
Employment: Approximately 42,300 people are employed as Personal Care Assistants
Projected Growth: The demand for PCAs is expected to grow, reflecting the increasing need for personal care services in the community.
Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate for this role is relatively low, indicating strong job security.

As the population ages and the demand for personal care services rises, the role of Personal Care Assistants is becoming increasingly important. This career not only offers the opportunity to make a significant difference in people’s lives but also provides a stable employment pathway in the health care sector.

Source: ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

What will I do?

Personal Care Assistants play a vital role in providing essential support and care to individuals in various health care settings, including homes and facilities. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of personal care tasks, ensuring that clients receive the assistance they need to maintain their dignity and quality of life. This career is particularly suited for those who are compassionate, patient, and dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

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 designed to assist clients with conditions like dementia and behavioural issues.
Observes and reports changes – Monitors clients’ conditions and communicates any significant changes to the appropriate healthcare staff.
Reports complaints about care – Addresses and escalates any concerns or complaints regarding the care provided.
Assists with rehabilitation exercises – Supports clients in performing prescribed rehabilitation exercises and basic treatments.
Delivers medications – Administers medications as directed by healthcare professionals, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) 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, as PCAs must interact with clients, families, and healthcare professionals to ensure that care plans are understood and followed. Empathy and patience are also crucial, as many clients may be dealing with physical or emotional challenges. Additionally, PCAs should possess good observational skills to monitor changes in a client’s condition and report any concerns promptly.

Furthermore, practical skills such as assisting with daily living activities—like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation—are fundamental to the role. A solid understanding of basic health and safety protocols is also important, particularly when administering medications or assisting with rehabilitation exercises. Finally, adaptability and problem-solving skills are vital, as PCAs often work in dynamic environments where they must respond to the varying needs of their clients effectively.

Skills/attributes

Compassion and Empathy
Strong Communication Skills
Patience and Understanding
Attention to Detail
Physical Stamina and Strength
Ability to Follow Care Plans
Basic Medical Knowledge
Problem-Solving Skills
Time Management
Teamwork and Collaboration
Respect for Privacy and Confidentiality
Adaptability and Flexibility
Cultural Sensitivity
Basic Cooking and Household Management Skills
First Aid and CPR Certification

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS

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How to Become a Personal Care Assistant: Australian Careers in Aged Care

What is a Personal Care Assistant?

Career snapshots For Personal Care Assistants

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes