A Career With Purpose.
A Future With Opportunity.
Career Overview
A career in aged care or disability support offers the opportunity to do meaningful work while building a career in one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas of employment. Aged and Disabled Carers are now Australia’s second-largest employing occupation, with around 364,700 people employed and an increase of 28,500 workers in just one year.
For people who want job security, meaningful work and the opportunity to make a genuine difference in people’s lives, a career in care could be a rewarding choice. Whether you’re supporting an older person to maintain their independence, or empowering someone with a disability to participate fully in their community, every day brings the chance to build trust, show compassion, and help someone live with dignity.
A career in aged care or disability support is as much about who you are as what you know. The personal qualities below are what employers, clients, and families value most — and they’re the foundation of a rewarding, long-term career in care:
- Compassion and empathy – genuinely caring about the wellbeing and dignity of others is at the heart of every great support worker
- Patience and resilience – supporting clients through their daily routines can take time, and staying calm under pressure is essential
- Strong communication – listening carefully and explaining clearly helps you build trust with clients, families and care teams
- Reliability and punctuality – clients depend on you, so being consistently dependable is one of the most valued traits in care work
- Physical stamina – the role involves being on your feet, assisting with mobility and performing manual tasks throughout the day
- Attention to detail – noticing small changes in a client's condition or routine can make a real difference to their health and safety
- Cultural awareness and respect – working with people from diverse backgrounds means approaching every interaction with openness and inclusivity
The Certificate III in Individual Support opens doors to several in-demand roles across the aged care and disability sectors. Here are three common pathways you can pursue:
Aged Care Worker
Support older people living in residential aged care facilities or their own homes. You'll assist with daily living activities, personal care, and social connection, helping older Australians maintain independence and quality of life.
Disability Support Worker
Work with people living with disability to support their independence, inclusion, and community participation. You'll assist with personal care, daily tasks, skill development, and social activities, empowering clients to live life on their own terms.
Personal Care Assistant
Provide direct personal care and support to clients in home, community, or clinical settings. You'll help with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility, ensuring comfort and dignity at every step.
Care roles are needed across a wide range of settings, giving you flexibility and variety in where and how you work:
- In-Home Care — Support clients in their own homes, providing one-on-one assistance that helps them remain independent and comfortable in familiar surroundings.
- Community & Day Programs — Work in community centres, day programs, or group homes, supporting clients to participate in social, recreational, and skill-building activities.
- Residential Aged Care — Care for residents in aged care facilities, providing round-the-clock support with personal care, meals, mobility, and emotional wellbeing.
- Clinical & Hospital Settings — Assist nurses and allied health professionals in clinical environments, supporting patient comfort, hygiene, and basic care under clinical supervision.
Before you start working in aged care, disability, or community services, there are several clearances and certifications you will need. Some of these can be arranged before or during your studies, and our team can guide you through the process:
- National Police Check — A current national police check is required to work in aged care, disability, and community services.
- NDIS Worker Screening Check — Mandatory for anyone working with NDIS participants, issued by your state screening unit.
- Working with Children Check (Blue Card) — Required if you will be working with or around children in Queensland.
- First Aid & CPR Certificate — A current Provide First Aid (HLTAID011) and CPR (HLTAID009) certificate is highly valued and often required by employers.
- Influenza Vaccination — Many aged care providers require evidence of an annual flu vaccination as a condition of employment.
Your Career Progression
A career in individual support offers clear pathways for growth. Here's how your career can develop over time.
Entry-Level Support Worker
0–2 years
Start as an Aged Care Worker, Disability Support Worker, or Personal Care Assistant providing direct, person-centred support to clients in homes, residential, or community settings.
Experienced Carer
2–5 years
Build expertise in complex care, dementia support, or behavioural management. Take on mentoring of new staff and leadership of small client groups or shifts.
Team Leader / Coordinator
5+ years
Step into a Team Leader or Service Coordinator role, overseeing care delivery, managing rosters, and supporting staff development across a service or facility.
Service Manager
Advanced
Progress into management positions such as Service Manager or Facility Manager, responsible for operations, compliance, budgets, and leading care teams.
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