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HOME CARE WORKER

Gender Representation

86% Female

Median Age

45

Median Weekly Earnings

$1222

Average Weekly Hours

26 Hours

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

Home Care Workers provide personalised support to clients within their own residences, aiming to promote independence and comfort. They assist with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, and perform household chores including cleaning, cooking, and shopping. Home Care Workers may also manage medication schedules, accompany clients to medical appointments, and offer companionship to alleviate feelings of isolation.

They are responsible for observing and reporting any changes in clients' health or living conditions to appropriate healthcare personnel. Working primarily in clients' homes requires adaptability and the ability to work independently. Key competencies include reliability, empathy, organisational skills, and cultural sensitivity. While formal qualifications are not always required, relevant certifications and training can enhance credibility and effectiveness in providing care.

MARKET SIZE & ECONOMIC IMPACT

Australia’s aged care industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, driven by an ageing population and increased demand for support services. As more Australians live longer, the need for aged care professionals continues to rise, creating strong job prospects and long-term career stability.
 

The industry plays a vital role in the national economy, contributing significantly to employment across the country. With ongoing government investment and reforms aimed at improving care standards, aged care remains a priority sector for both funding and development. Whether in residential facilities, home care, or community support settings, the aged care workforce is essential to Australia’s social and economic wellbeing.

EMERGING TRENDS & FUTURE OUTLOOK

The Australian aged care industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by changing preferences, demographic shifts, and government reform. A growing number of older Australians are choosing to age in place, leading to increased demand for home-based and community care services that provide personalised support in familiar environments.
 

A strong emphasis is now being placed on person-centred care, where services are tailored to the unique needs, values, and preferences of each individual. This shift includes recognising and respecting cultural safety, linguistic diversity, and inclusive practices—particularly for First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, and LGBTQIA+ elders.
 

In response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the government has committed to a series of reforms aimed at delivering safer, more transparent, and higher-quality care. These reforms are reshaping workforce standards, increasing accountability, and encouraging ongoing training and professional development across the sector.
 

Looking ahead, the demand for qualified aged care workers is expected to surge. There will be growing opportunities for those with multilingual abilities, mental health training, or specialised experience in dementia and palliative care. Technology will also play a bigger role, with innovations such as digital health records, remote monitoring, and assistive devices enhancing the way care is delivered and documented.
 

Overall, the future of aged care in Australia promises a more responsive, compassionate, and inclusive system—one that offers fulfilling and impactful career opportunities for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of older people.

CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

Specialise in High-Demand Support Areas

Home Care Workers can deepen their skills and explore specialised areas such as:

  • Dementia Care – Support clients with memory loss and cognitive changes in familiar home environments.

  • Palliative Care – Provide compassionate end-of-life support that prioritises comfort, dignity, and emotional care.

  • Mental Health Support – Assist older clients who may experience loneliness, depression, or anxiety while living independently.

These specialisations are increasingly in demand and can lead to higher pay, more responsibility, and deeper client impact.

Upskilling & Career Progression

The home care industry values workers who want to learn and grow. You could:

  • Complete a Certificate IV in Ageing Support to step into roles like Care Team Leader or Case Manager.

  • Branch into related fields such as Disability Support, Community Services, or Mental Health Work.

  • Use your experience as a stepping stone to study Nursing, Allied Health, or even Care Coordination.

Many employers offer support for further training, and short courses can be completed while you work.

Supportive Learning Environment

  • Take advantage of on-the-job training, mentoring, and micro-credentials in areas like dementia care, cultural competency, and safe manual handling.

  • Upskilling helps you provide safer, more confident care—and gives you a competitive edge in the industry.

Grow Personally & Professionally

  • Develop soft skills like resilience, adaptability, and empathy—all while making a positive difference every day.

  • Enjoy a career that offers work-life balance, meaningful connections, and the ability to support people where they feel most comfortable: at home.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH

CORE SKILLS YOU NEED

Independence & Initiative

Clear Communication

Time
Management

Observing &
Reporting

Trust & Relationship Building

Ready to make a real difference in people’s lives—right from the comfort of their own homes? Starting your journey as a Home Care Worker is simple. You don’t need previous experience—just compassion, a willingness to learn, and a desire to support others with dignity and respect.
 

To work in home care, most employers will expect you to complete one or more nationally recognised qualifications such as:

  • Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing, Home & Community)

  • Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)

  • Certificate IV in Ageing Support

  • Certificate IV in Disability

  • Certificate IV in Mental Health

  • First Aid & CPR (HLTAID011)

  • Manual Handling & Infection Control Training

  • Short Courses in Dementia Care, Palliative Care or Cultural Competency

GET QUALIFIED TO START YOUR CAREER

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