Changing Jobs and Finding Meaning in the Aged Care Sector

All too often, we find ourselves stuck in uninspiring roles that fail to challenge us or offer any real meaning in our day-to-day work.

Does this sound like you? Well, if you’re considering a shift, why not take a look at the aged care sector?

Aged care agencies across Australia are constantly searching for dedicated individuals eager to make a difference. In this guide, our recruitment specialists at McArthur will explore how transitioning into this rewarding field could be your next great career move.

The Aged Care Sector in Australia Today

So, "what do you find rewarding about an aged care job?" It's a question often asked. A quick glance at an aged care job description reveals the truth: aged care professionals play a vital societal role. They help our elders maintain their dignity and quality of life, acting as a backbone of empathy and care in our community.

In Australia, the aged care sector has also become a highly dynamic field, constantly evolving to meet the growing needs of our aging population. What’s more, after the recent Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, a host of new improvements and incentives have been introduced by both the federal government and major organisations in the field.

As such, there has never been a better time to consider this industry as your professional calling.

Growth, Stability & Financial Incentives

With the country's ageing population, the demand for aged care services is set to grow steadily. This guarantees stability and abundant job opportunities, a sought-after feature in any profession. Moreover, as of 1 July 2023, the Federal Government has confirmed that all Aged Care workers will receive a 15% pay increase to better align with orders from the Fair Work Commission.

Career Progression Opportunities

The aged care sector is also ripe with opportunities for professional growth. From direct care roles to administrative and management roles, there is scope for vertical and lateral career progression.

A Chance to Make a Difference

A career in aged care allows you to make a tangible difference in people's lives daily. The services you provide contribute significantly to the well-being and comfort of the elderly, offering you the satisfaction of meaningful work.

Diverse Work Settings

Jobs in the aged care sector aren't confined to residential aged care facilities. They're found in community services, home care, respite care, and senior citizen centres, among others, providing variety in work environments.

Steps to Transition into the Aged Care Sector

Ready to search for an aged care job near you? Let's delve deeper into how you can make a smooth transition into the aged care sector:

1. Self-Evaluation

This is your first step – evaluating your skills, traits, and passion. Aged care work requires compassion, empathy, patience, and excellent communication. Apart from these, having a real interest in working with the elderly is crucial.

2. Research

Next, familiarise yourself with the industry, taking the time to understand the roles available within aged care agencies, as well as the required skills, qualifications, and daily responsibilities each role entails.

3. Education and Training

Aged care roles often require specific qualifications. This might involve obtaining a Certificate III or IV in Aged Care, or even a bachelor's or master's degree for roles such as aged care management. Numerous institutions across Australia offer these qualifications. For clarification on what’s required, aged care recruitment agencies like McArthur are excellent sources of information about essential certificates and qualifications.

4. Work Experience

Nothing beats the value of hands-on experience. Seek aged care job vacancies and opportunities to volunteer at local facilities. Not only does this look great on your CV, but it also provides practical insight into the day-to-day running of these services.

5. Finding & Applying for Jobs

Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, you're ready to apply for jobs. Rather than simply searching ‘aged care job vacancies near me’, you can work with specialist aged care recruitment agencies to find the best-suited roles. At McArthur, for example, we have a range of aged care jobs available across the country to help seasoned professionals, as well as those new to the field.

Don’t forget to customise your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and passion for the industry.

Partner with One of the Leading Aged Care Recruitment Agencies in Australia

If you are eager to learn more about how you can break into the aged care sector, speak with our specialists at McArthur today.