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How to Become a Carer: Australian Careers in Aged Care

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What is a Carer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Carer?

A Carer gives help to elderly or disabled people in Australia. They assist with daily tasks, personal care, and mental wellbeing. Carers work in aged care homes, disability services, or a client’s home. It is one of the fastest-growing jobs in the country.

The day-to-day work is hands-on and varied. Carers help with bathing, dressing, meals, and medicine. They also give company and social support. This helps clients stay safe, well, and as self-reliant as possible.

Carers work closely with nurses, allied health staff, and family members. They follow care plans and report any changes in a client’s health. Good talking and checking skills are as useful as hands-on care.

Demand for Carers is very strong. Over 364,700 people work as carers in Australia (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). As Australia’s population ages, that demand will only grow. A Carer job offers stability, purpose, and clear ways to advance.

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Career snapshots For Carers

The Carer role is one of the most in-demand jobs in Australia. Over 364,700 people are currently employed as aged or disabled carers, with future demand rated very strong (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Around 40% of carers work full-time, averaging 43 hours per week. The workforce is 76% female, with a median age of 42.

Average weekly earnings are $1,564, or about $81,000 a year for full-time workers (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Entry-level pay starts from around $57,000. Senior and specialist carers can earn up to $95,000. The entry qualification is the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021), available at TAFEs and RTOs across Australia.

Demand will keep growing as Australia’s population ages and the NDIS expands. The Aged Care Act 2024 introduced stronger quality standards from November 2025. For people who want a stable, rewarding career with real community impact, caring is a strong option.

What will I do?

A Carer gives hands-on help to elderly and disabled people. Carers work in aged care homes, disability services, and private homes. The role covers daily personal care, health checks, and company for clients.

  • Personal Care – Helping clients with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting to maintain dignity and comfort.
  • Meal Preparation – Planning and cooking meals that meet each client’s dietary and health needs.
  • Medication Help – Helping clients take their medicines on time and watching for side effects.
  • Mobility Support – Helping clients move safely, including transfers and the use of mobility aids.
  • Companionship – Spending time with clients to reduce isolation and support mental wellbeing.
  • Household Tasks – Doing light cleaning, laundry, and shopping to keep the client’s home safe and tidy.
  • Health Monitoring – Watching for changes in a client’s health and reporting these to nurses or care staff.
  • Record Keeping – Keeping clear records of care given, health notes, and any incidents.

What skills do I need?

A Carer needs a mix of hands-on skills and personal strengths. The most vital is genuine empathy. Carers work with people who rely on them for safety and comfort. Strong talking and listening skills help Carers connect with clients, families, and health teams.

Physical stamina matters too. Personal care is hands-on and can be tiring. Good watching skills are also key. Carers must spot changes in a client’s state and report them quickly. The Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) builds the core skills needed for the role.

Skills/attributes

  • Empathy and Compassion
  • Active Listening and Communication
  • Patience and Emotional Resilience
  • Physical Stamina and Safe Manual Handling
  • Attention to Detail and Observation
  • Care Planning and Documentation
  • Time Management and Organisation
  • First Aid Knowledge
  • Medication Assistance and Monitoring
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Adaptability and Problem-Solving
  • Respect for Diversity and Cultural Safety
  • Understanding of Aged Care and NDIS Standards

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.