Looking for a new career? You’re not alone. With some estimates reporting that up to two million people could be out of work in Australia due to social distancing measures, the effects of COVID-19 will have far reaching consequences for everyone. If the projected unemployment rate does reach 15%, this will be the worst since the great depression of 1932.
As the broader economy starts to plummet, however, some sectors are bucking the trend with booming growth. One of these areas is aged care.
The elderly are some of the most vulnerable members of our society and now, more than ever before, demand for fully qualified aged care workers is soaring, but not solely due to the threat from Coronavirus. Australia’s population is ageing fast.
Huge growth
Only last week, the Federal Government announced an additional $444.6 million in funding for the aged care sector to support staff retention in residential aged care and home care amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as help with the viability of aged care facilities. This comes on top of previously announced investments to support Australia’s ageing population, predicted to grow from 366,000 to 980,000 by 2050.
It’s a huge issue for Australia.
Not only do we need to protect our elderly now in the midst of the Coronavirus crisis, we will still need to cater for surging, on-going demand for specialised care in nursing homes, in-home care and a range of palliative care. This trend will continue well beyond the next 18 months into the future.
It takes a special person
The numbers suggest that a move into the aged care industry would provide stable employment for decades to come, but a career in aged care is not for everybody – it takes a really special person with a big heart and an abundance of empathy. For the right person, however, a career in aged care can be hugely rewarding and now is the time to get started with a nationally recognised CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support.
You can study full-time or part time at Yorke’s campuses in Melbourne CBD, Hoppers Crossing or Dandenong and eligible students may also benefit from government funding. It’s surprisingly easy to access once you meet the eligibility criteria. We also source and provide our students with over 120 hours of mandatory work placements in an aged care facility, so you can build your confidence with through real world, on the job experience.
Importantly, careers in aged care tend to offer quite a bit of flexibility for working full time or part time, so if you’re juggling extra demands in your life and you need to work hours that suit your schedule, a career in aged care could be just what you’re looking for.
Opportunities for career advancement
Opportunities for career advancement are excellent beyond an entry level role as a PCA (Personal Care Assistant). You could become a Disability Officer-Day Support, Activities Officer, Community Leisure Officer, Diversional Therapy Assistant, Leisure and Recreational Officer and more. Graduates from our Cert IV course can also upskill to a management diploma with Yorke’s CHC53415 Diploma of Leisure and Health.
Top quality training
Our trainers are known throughout the aged care industry for their experience, compassion, and quality tuition. They are passionate advocates for ageing support and believe in making a difference to the lives of the elderly. They conduct their courses with dignity and professionalism. In turn, they make it their mission to instil these beliefs into their students.
If you think a career in aged care might be for you, get in touch with our team. We’ll take you through everything you need to know and quickly establish if you’re eligible for government funding. If not, we can also provide you with some alternative options. Call now for more information on (03) 9042 0231.
