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

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Graduate Certificate in Critical Care

The Graduate Certificate in Critical Care from UTS Online is designed for aspiring nursing leaders who are looking to learn and apply specialist knowledge in every aspect of their patient care.

This course will take your expertise to the next level by developing advanced knowledge, attitude, and skills required to deliver safe and effective patient care within intensive care units and emergency departments for today and the future.

Delivered 100% online, this critical care course will teach you contemporary critical care concepts in a collaborative learning environment, engaging in interactive activities that address real-world challenges relevant to your practice including caring for people with life-threatening conditions, injuries and complications using therapeutic interventions.

UTS is the #1 ranked university for nursing in Australia and #11 in the world. In this course, you will learn from world-leading educators and clinicians to enhance your critical care knowledge.

Online

Personal Care Worker, Registered Nurse (RN)

Price may vary

8 months part-time

CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)

Go from beginner to professional community services worker with the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), offered by Open Colleges in association with Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (RTO: 90197).

The course is designed to get you job-ready, providing you with the skills and training you need to step directly into a support role when you finish. You’ll learn how to facilitate the empowerment of older people; work with diverse people; the legal and ethical requirements for working in a care role; implement behaviour support strategies, plus much more.

Practical component

While this course is offered 100% online, you’ll also be required to undertake at least 160 hours of work placement to put your learning into practice and gain industry exposure.

This Certificate III will be issued by Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd.

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

Online, Workplace

Online

Accommodation Support Worker, Aged Care Worker, Care Assistant, Community Care Worker, Personal Care Worker, Residential Care Worker

Price may vary

Self paced - up to 12 months

Not Available

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

On this page

What is a Personal Care Worker?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Personal Care Worker?

The role of a Personal Care Worker is both rewarding and essential, providing vital support to individuals in need of assistance with daily living activities. These dedicated professionals work in various settings, including aged care facilities, hospitals, and clients’ homes, ensuring that those they care for receive the attention and help they require. Personal Care Workers play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for their clients, fostering independence, and promoting dignity in care.

Personal Care Workers 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. They are often involved in developing care plans tailored to individual needs, ensuring that each client receives personalised support. By following therapy plans and observing changes in their clients’ conditions, Personal Care Workers contribute significantly to the overall well-being of those they assist.

In addition to providing direct care, Personal Care Workers also serve as a vital link between clients and healthcare professionals. They report any concerns or changes in a client’s health to the appropriate medical staff, ensuring timely interventions when necessary. This role requires not only compassion and patience but also strong communication skills, as Personal Care Workers often build meaningful relationships with their clients, fostering trust and comfort.

With a growing demand for personal care services in Australia, a career as a Personal Care Worker offers stability and the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of others. This profession is ideal for those who are passionate about helping others and are looking for a fulfilling career path that combines practical skills with emotional support. As the population ages, the need for skilled Personal Care Workers will continue to rise, making this a promising field for those seeking a meaningful career.

Career snapshots For Personal Care Workers

The role of a Personal Care Worker is vital in providing support and assistance to individuals in various health and community settings. This career is particularly appealing to those who are compassionate and enjoy helping others, making it a rewarding choice for many.

Average Age: 40 years
Gender Distribution: 79% female
Hours Worked: Average of 42 hours per week
Median Weekly Earnings: $1,279
Unemployment Rate: Relatively low, with a strong demand for workers
Current Employment: Approximately 104,500 individuals are employed in this role
Projected Growth: An annual increase of about 4,800 positions is expected

As the population ages and the demand for personal care services continues to rise, the need for Personal Care Workers is anticipated to grow significantly. This career not only offers job stability but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Source: ABS, Labour Force Survey, 2023; Jobs and Skills Australia.

What will I do?

Personal Care Workers play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing essential support and assistance to individuals in various settings, including homes, hospitals, and aged care facilities. Their work is centred around enhancing the quality of life for those they care for, ensuring that personal care needs are met with compassion and professionalism. This career is particularly rewarding for those who have a passion for helping others and making a positive impact in their communities.

Assisting with personal care needs – Helping patients with activities such as showering, dressing, and eating.
Supporting mobility and communication – Aiding patients in moving around and facilitating effective communication.
Participating in care planning – Collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop and implement individual care plans.
Following therapy plans – Implementing specific interventions for patients with conditions like dementia or behavioural issues.
Observing and reporting changes – Monitoring patients’ conditions and reporting any significant changes or complaints about care.
Assisting with rehabilitation – Supporting patients in rehabilitation exercises and basic treatment procedures.
Delivering medications – Administering prescribed medications as directed by healthcare professionals.
Providing support to therapists – Assisting therapists in delivering care and therapy sessions.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Personal Care Worker 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 are vital for understanding and responding to the needs of clients, as well as for collaborating with healthcare professionals. Personal Care Workers must also possess excellent interpersonal skills, allowing them to build trusting relationships with clients and their families. Additionally, physical stamina and the ability to assist with mobility and personal care tasks are crucial, as the role often involves lifting and supporting individuals with limited mobility.

Moreover, Personal Care Workers should be observant and detail-oriented, as they are responsible for monitoring changes in clients’ conditions and reporting any concerns to healthcare professionals. A solid understanding of basic healthcare practices, including hygiene and safety protocols, is also important. Empathy and patience are essential traits, enabling Personal Care Workers to provide emotional support and comfort to those they assist. Overall, a combination of practical skills, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for clients is fundamental for success in this rewarding career.

Skills/attributes

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

Resources

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VIC

ACT

TAS

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

What is a Personal Care Worker?

Career snapshots For Personal Care Workers

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes