Aged care refers to providing support and assistance to elderly people. Are you considering switching from a working holiday to student visa? Wanting to stay in Australia longer? Curious about gaining permanent residency through aged care? This guide is for you!
Why Aged Care?
Currently, Australia’s aged care industry is facing unprecedented demand due to a rapidly aging population. This has led to a chronic shortage of workers, creating major career opportunities for everyone— even if you don’t have prior experience in healthcare.
A 2022 study by Australia’s National Skills Commission projected a shortage of 100,000 aged and disability care workers by 2027–28. This number could grow to 212,000 by 2050 (The Guardian). In addition, more than 81,000 elderly living at home are waitlisted for aged care assistance, highlighting the urgent need for more aged care workers (The Weekly Source).
1. Pathways for Those Without Medical Experience
Don’t have a medical background? That’s ok!
You can still work in aged care in Australia by completing a Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care). After approximately six months of full-time study, including 120 hours of hands-on training, you’ll be eligible to work as an aged care assistant!
- Qualification: Certificate III in Aged Care or a related field
- Duration: About 6 months full-time + supervised work placement
- Career Opportunities: Work in high-demand areas like residential care homes, community care, and in-home support
Why it’s a good choice
- Quick employment: You can start working in a paid role within half a year
- National recognition: Certificate III is widely accepted by employers across Australia
- Networking: Practical training helps you build connections in the industry
Contact us for free for more information on certificate providers!
2. Pathways for Nurses with Experience
If you’re a qualified nurse from overseas, your experience is highly valued in Australia’s aged care industry. However, many nurses find it difficult to obtain full registration as a nurse in Australia within their visa period.
A practical alternative is to take on a lower-level support role first, using your existing skills. This may allow you to apply for a work or permanent visa, giving you more time to complete the registration process for becoming a fully licensed nurse in Australia.
If you are worried about English language ability, you can enrol in one of our partner language schools to further develop your abilities.
Contact us for free for information on language schools!
3. Employer Sponsorship and Visa Options
Thanks to the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement, approved aged care providers in Australia can sponsor overseas workers for visas. This creates a pathway for long-term employment and potential permanent residency for eligible candidates!
4. Summary
- If you’re looking for a new career and don’t have healthcare experience, Certificate III is a great entry point into Australia’s fast-growing aged care sector.
- If you’re already a nurse, you may be able to use your skills in a support role while working towards full nurse registration.
- Combining study, work experience, and the industry sponsorship agreement can lead to long-term job opportunities and even permanent residency.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or bringing valuable nursing experience from overseas, Australia’s aged care industry welcomes your contribution — and needs it now more than ever.
For more information, contact Australian Visa Helper
Provided by:
Australian Government Registered Migration Agent (MARN 1688444)
Lazar Petkantchin