Working in aged care
Aged care is one of the fastest growing sectors in Australia.
Working in aged care offers variety, personal growth and the chance to make a difference to the lives of others.
The work is both challenging and rewarding – no two days are ever the same.
Every day aged care workers apply their professional skills, experience, creativity and empathy to protect older people’s independence, dignity, safety and wellbeing. They help find solutions to meet each person’s needs.
What do aged care workers do?
They provide essential care, services and support to older people.
While the role of an aged care worker varies, here are some of their common responsibilities:
- Personal care – helping with everyday personal tasks, like showering, toileting and dressing.
- Mobility and social activities – helping with moving around the home, shopping, appointments or joining in other activities.
- Helping with technology – helping people use tools and technology to stay independent.
- Giving medication – helping people take their medicine safely and as prescribed.
- Exercise – helping people with exercises that are right for their needs and ability.
- Talking with families and other health care professionals – making sure everyone understands the care the older person needs.
- Household tasks and safety – cooking meals, cleaning or making sure the home is safe and tidy.
- Administration – working in the office of an aged care service.
Types of aged care work
Aged care providers or employment services usually employ aged care workers.
Aged care workers can work in different places. They can work in one location or move around throughout the day or week.
Home care services
People working in these services provide care and support to older people in their own home and in the community.
Home care workers help people stay independent and continue living safely and comfortably at home.
They also help older people stay active, connected and engaged in everyday life.
Residential care
People working in these services provide care and support in a residential aged care home. They help meet older people’s needs in a safe, nurturing and supportive environment. This includes helping with daily activities, medical care and social activities.
What we do
We are the national regulator of aged care. We check:
- government-funded services to make sure they comply with regulations and the Aged Care Quality Standards
- aged care workers comply with regulations such as the Code of Conduct for Aged Care.
To see results of our checks on providers go to Find a report.
Star ratings
All government-funded aged care homes in Australia have a star rating. Star ratings provide information about a provider’s quality of care. They can help people make informed choices when looking for aged care.
To find the providers in your area, and see their star rating, go to My Aged Care.
More information
To see if a career in aged care is right for you, watch Looking for a job and exploring your options?
For information about how to become an aged care worker, visit the Your Career website.
To find out more about working in aged care, including jobs across the country, go to Getting onto the aged care workforce.
