How to Get Permanent Residency for Aged and Disability Care Worker in Australia: Study, Skills Assessment & Visa Options

Are you looking to migrate to Australia as an Aged or Disability Care Worker? With Australia’s growing ageing population and strong demand for skilled workers in the care sector, there’s never been a better time to explore this career path. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand how to qualify, the visas available, and why this profession offers long-term opportunities for migrants.

How to Qualify as an Aged or Disability Care Worker in Australia

Australia has specific qualifications for those wanting to work in the aged care or disability care sector. These qualifications ensure you have the expertise to meet the needs of vulnerable groups. Here are the most common qualifications required:

• Certificate III in Individual Support

• Certificate IV in Ageing Support

• Diploma of Community Services

• Diploma of Nursing (Aged Care)

These qualifications can be earned through Australian Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) or other accredited institutions. Some workers may also have the opportunity to apply for recognition of prior learning (RPL), allowing them to gain qualifications based on their previous experience.

The Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement: Key Benefits

Due to the high demand for aged care workers, the Australian government introduced the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement. This initiative allows employers in the aged care sector to sponsor overseas workers, providing a pathway for migration under employer-sponsored visas.

Key Benefits of the Labour Agreement:

• No Post-Qualification Work Experience Required: This is a significant advantage for workers who have the required qualifications but not necessarily years of hands-on experience in Australia.

• Lower Salary Threshold: Typically, the minimum salary threshold is reduced to $51,222 per year, which is a substantial concession compared to other skilled migration pathways.

• English Language Concessions: You may qualify for a subclass 482 visa with a minimum IELTS score of 5.0, and for the subclass 186 visa, an IELTS score of 5.5 may be sufficient, provided the position doesn’t require a higher standard.

These benefits make it easier for qualified international professionals to enter the Australian workforce.

Visa Pathways for Aged and Disability Care Workers

There are several visa options available for those looking to work in the aged care sector. Below are the main visa pathways:

1. Temporary Skills Shortage Visa (subclass 482) – Labour Agreement Stream

This temporary visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia for up to four years. With the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement, you can apply for this visa without the standard work experience requirement, making it an attractive option for qualified workers.

2. Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – Labour Agreement Stream

This permanent visa allows skilled workers nominated by their employer to live and work in Australia permanently. Under the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement, you can qualify for the subclass 186 visa after two years of relevant work experience in Australia.

These pathways are particularly advantageous for skilled workers in the aged care sector because they provide long-term job security and access to permanent residency.

A Growing Industry with Strong Demand

The aged care industry in Australia is experiencing significant growth due to the country’s ageing population. By 2055, it’s expected that one in four Australians will be over the age of 65. This demographic shift has led to a constant demand for skilled professionals in the sector, including aged care workers, disability carers, and personal support workers.

With government support and substantial funding allocated to aged care services, the sector is a key part of Australia’s future workforce. This demand is expected to remain high for the foreseeable future, making it a secure and rewarding career path.

Additionally, aged care workers benefit from strong job security and competitive salaries. In 2024, a major wage increase was implemented for aged care workers, with some roles seeing pay rises of up to 28.5%. For instance, a personal care worker with a Certificate III now earns an annual salary of around $63,642.80. This figure continues to rise due to ongoing demand in the sector.

Start Your Journey to Australia’s Aged Care Sector

As the demand for aged and disability care workers continues to grow in Australia, now is the perfect time to consider this career path. With opportunities for permanent residency and competitive salaries, Australia’s aged care sector offers a rewarding future.

If you’re ready to start your migration journey, we are here to assist you with the visa application process, ensuring you have the guidance and support needed to make the transition smoothly.