CHC33021 - Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) | Upskilled

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Nationally recognised

up to 18 months

15 units of competency

Flexible payment plans available

Course Summary

Duration

up to 18 months

Units

15 units of competency

Are you passionate about a career in caring for others? The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) is your gateway to becoming a skilled Care Worker in the aged care sector. As a professional in aged care, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference, whether in a residential setting or within the community. This course is tailored to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in your role as a Care Worker. Additionally, it includes a Work Placement component, ensuring you gain hands-on experience and confidence in providing exceptional care to the elderly.

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What you'll learn

In this qualification, you will undertake a series of units designed to develop your skills as a professional aged care worker. These units will equip you with the knowledge and competencies required to excel in your role, emphasising compassion and ethics.

Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to apply your learning in real-world settings during work placement. In the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), you will learn to:

Recognise the functioning of healthy body systems
Support and promote independence and well-being
Empower older individuals in their journey
Provide essential support to individuals living with dementia

In addition to these key skills, you'll also acquire:

Autonomy in your work
Cultural sensitivity
Conflict resolution abilities
Complex problem-solving skills

About Self-Paced Learning

Upskilled wants to ensure that you get the best online learning experience, which is why we offer flexible and self-paced courses to suit your needs.

While online learning provides you with the flexibility of managing both your personal and work schedule, it's important to have a consistent approach so you don't fall behind.

We want to help you succeed, which is why all the courses delivered through Upskilled come with a training plan to help you stay on track.

On average, Upskilled students take approximately 13 months to finish a course.

Simply put, the more hours you dedicate to your course, the closer you'll be to the finish line.

Course Duration

This course is designed to be completed within 18 months.

There is no minimum timeframe to complete this course. Students who are highly motivated, well-organised, experienced and committed to making time to study can complete the qualification at an accelerated pace.

Please speak with one of our Education Consultants about your study and course completion goals.

Inclusions

By choosing Upskilled, you will gain access to supplementary resources that can help with your studies. These inclusions aim to enhance your online learning experience, making it interactive and engaging. These include:

Access to Upskilled's customised learning platform, MyUpskilled
Student Support Team
Specialist trainers
Online tutorials

Recognition of Prior Learning / Credit Transfer

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer (CT) provided that you have supporting evidence of any prior education and work experience. This can either reduce your study load or shorten the duration of your course. Prior to enrolment, please speak with your Education Consultant for further details.

After enrolment, you can download the application from MyUpskilled, or on request from Student Support. A trainer will be assigned to assess your eligibility for RPL and/or CT.

Assessment

This course will have you undertake summative and formative assessments, write reports and/or create a portfolio, and participate in role-playing scenarios. You'll also be working on a variety of projects that require your own research as well as answering various written/oral questions that apply the theory you learn into practice.

Work Placement

For the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), the work placement requirements are as follows:

If you are currently working in the disability industry, you are required to undertake a period of at least 120 hours of direct support work in at least one aged care, home and community, disability, or community service organisation, focusing on activities specified for CHCCCS040 - Support independence and wellbeing.
If you are not currently working in the disability industry, you are required to complete an additional ten (10) hours of work placement in addition to the 120 hours. This extra placement provides you with the opportunity to practice the specific skills required in the disability industry.

Be sure to check out our Industry Partners if you need further assistance in sourcing a host organisation for work placement.

Role-Playing and Interactive Learning Activities

This course comes with Interactive Learning Activities. Upskilled understands the importance of practical experience, so to complement the theory components of your course, our specialist trainers may run ad-hoc Interactive Learning Activities.

You'll have the opportunity to collaborate with other students - sharing questions, thoughts and ideas, as well as participating together in interactive learning activities.

While the Interactive Learning Activities are not mandatory, your participation is encouraged. You can receive some additional benefits and support, which may include:

Having a study buddy where you can bounce off ideas and help each other with assessments.
Online Classrooms where our specialist trainers can go over learning content that's part of your course.
Activities that relate to your assessments, which can help boost your knowledge and skills.

Additionally, role-playing is included in some of the learning areas of this course. It will also make up some of the practical elements of your assessments, including the assessments in your work placement.

The benefits of role-playing

Upskilled believes that you can benefit from undertaking role-playing activities throughout your studies. Not only are they fun and interactive, it gives you the opportunity to collaborate with other participants such as other students, your family, friends and or colleagues.

Below are some benefits you can experience when role-playing:

Improved decision-making and communication skills: Working in health and community services may involve you working in a variety of work settings. Professionals in this field are expected to make decisions and communicate effectively with clients, colleagues and stakeholders. Our role-playing assessments can help further improve your decision-making and communication skills in a community service workplace.
Preparation for work placement: Role-playing is effective in helping you prepare for work placement. Before you go on work placement, you'll need to complete most of the theory components of your course. The skills and knowledge developed from your role-playing assessments are based on scenarios you may face when working in the community services industry.
Develop knowledge and skills to be "work-ready": Due to the interactive nature of role-playing, it can be an opportunity to practice community service industry roles with volunteers and other students in order to enhance your knowledge and skills. Job roles within this field are "hands-on", so role-playing can prepare you for the physical nature of the work - particularly in the disability and aged care sectors.

Course Detail

This qualification is tailored for individuals interested in pursuing a career in aged care or related positions. If you're someone who thrives on hands-on care and is dedicated to making a difference as a Care Worker, this course provides the knowledge and skills you need.

You will delve into essential topics, including nurturing relationships with carers and families, and adhering to infection prevention and control policies and procedures.

Course Structure

To satisfy the requirements of this qualification, you'll need to complete the following units of competency.

CHCDIV001

Work with diverse people

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. This unit applies to all workers. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
CHCCOM005

Communicate and work in health or community services

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, management and other industry providers. This unit applies to a range of health and community service contexts where workers may communicate face-to-face, in writing or using digital media and work with limited responsibility under direct or indirect supervision.
CHCLEG001

Work legally and ethically

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and work within the legal and ethical frameworks that apply to an individual job role. This unit applies to community services and health workers who play a proactive role in identifying and meeting their legal and ethical responsibilities. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
HLTWHS002

Follow safe work practices for direct client care

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for a worker to participate in safe work practices to ensure their own health and safety, and that of others in work environments that involve caring directly for clients. It has a focus on maintaining safety of the worker, the people being supported and other community members. This unit applies to all workers who require knowledge of workplace health and safety (WHS) to carry out their own work, in both centre-based and home-based service provision.
CHCCCS041

Recognise healthy body systems

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work with basic information about healthy body systems and the impacts of ageing and disability. It includes recognising and reporting any changes in healthy bodies involving people who are ageing or living with disability. Any identified issues of concern to be reported to the supervisor or professional health staff. This unit applies to workers across a range of community services contexts. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCCCS033

Identify and report abuse

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify signs of abuse, including suspected abuse or allegations of abuse, take appropriate action according to role and responsibilities and minimise the risk of abuse to a person. This unit applies to workers in a range of community services contexts. Work may be carried out under direct, indirect or remote supervision. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCMHS001

Work with people with mental health issues

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish relationships, clarify needs, and then work collaboratively with people who are living with mental health issues. This unit applies to support workers in contexts outside the mental health sector, but who come into contact with people with mental health issues. The services and support provided are not mental health specific.
CHCAGE013

Work effectively in aged care

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work effectively in an aged care work context. The unit covers meeting job requirements, complying with organisational requirements and working in an aged care sector context. This unit applies to individuals who work with older people in a range of community services and health contexts. Work performed requires some discretion and judgement and is carried out under regular direct, indirect or remote supervision. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCPAL003

Deliver care services using a palliative approach

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to provide care for people with life-limiting illness and those within the normal ageing process using a palliative approach, as well as end-of-life care. This unit applies to workers in a residential or community context. Work performed requires some discretion and judgement and is carried out under regular direct, indirect or remote supervision. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCCCS036

Support relationships with carer and family

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work positively with the carer and family of people using a service based on an understanding of their support needs. This unit applies to workers across a range of community services contexts. Work may be carried out under direct, indirect or remote supervision. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCCCS031

Provide individualised support

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to organise, provide and monitor personal support services for a person within the limits established by an individualised plan. The individualised plan refers to the support or service provision plan developed for the person accessing the service and may have different names in different organisations. This unit applies to workers who provide care or support under direct, indirect or remote supervision. Work is carried out in a manner which supports independence as well as the physical and emotional wellbeing of the person receiving support. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCAGE011

Provide support to people living with dementia

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to provide person-centred care and support to people living with dementia. It involves following an established individualised plan. This unit applies to workers in a residential or community context, including family homes. Work performed requires some discretion and judgement and may be carried out under direct, indirect or remote supervision. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
HLTINF006

Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to apply basic infection prevention and control principles in work settings including implementing standard and transmission-based precautions and responding to risks. This unit applies to individuals working in a range of industry and work setting contexts. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCCCS038

Facilitate the empowerment of people receiving support

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to facilitate the empowerment of people receiving support, and to deliver rights-based services using a person-centred approach. It should be carried out in conjunction with individualised plans. This unit applies to workers in varied care and support contexts. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
CHCCCS040

Support independence and wellbeing

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide individualised services in ways that support independence, as well as physical and emotional wellbeing. This unit applies to workers in a range of community services contexts who provide frontline support services within the context of an established individualised plan. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice. No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Completion Certificate

Entry requirements

Start date

There are no formal entry requirements for this course. To make sure you get the most out of training with us, the following enrolment process applies:

Once you have inquired, one of our friendly Education Consultants will contact you to ensure you have the right pre-existing knowledge and skills to achieve your chosen qualification.
A short language, literacy and numeracy assessment will need to be completed upon enrolment.

To successfully complete this course, we recommend the following:

Have the ability to read and write in English and display numeracy skills up to a minimum level of Year 10.
Have access to a modern computer with high-speed internet.
Have access to a device with audio/video recording and playback capabilities.
Have basic computing skills, including the ability to make and upload short videos.

Requirements for work placement

This qualification will have you undertake work placement at a nominated host organisation approved by Upskilled.

Work placement has been specifically designed to help prepare you for potential career outcomes, giving you the opportunity to further implement and gain practical skills and valuable industry insights through a real-life workplace.

Your work placement will commence once you have completed most of the theory components of your course.

Here are some key requirements you should be aware of for the CHC33021 - Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing):

If you are currently working in the disability industry, you are required to undertake a period of at least 120 hours of direct support work in at least one aged care, home and community, disability, or community service organisation, focusing on activities specified for CHCCCS040 - Support independence and wellbeing.
If you are not currently working in the disability industry, you are required to complete an additional ten (10) hours of work placement in addition to the 120 hours. This extra placement provides you with the opportunity to practice the specific skills required in the disability industry.
It is your responsibility to source a suitable host organisation for work placement. Please note that this can take up to several weeks, so it is recommended to allocate sufficient time when sourcing host suitable organisations.
If you are unable to locate a host organisation, Upskilled's Work Placement Officer can assist you in finding one. Please note that it is required to provide Upskilled with a list of host organisations who have declined your requests for work placement via MyUpskilled.
Once you have successfully secured work placement with a host organisation, you will need to complete the Work Placement Agreement Form and submit via MyUpskilled. Please note that Upskilled must approve the Work Placement Agreement before you start your work placement.

To meet the work placement requirements for this course, you may need to undertake placement within 2 organisations to allow exposure to both residential aged care and community care settings.

When am I eligible to commence work placement?

You will be eligible to commence work placement if you have met the following requirements:

Submitted the relevant approved Clearance Checks
Unlocked the Work Placement Module via MyUpskilled
Received approval from Upskilled for your submission of the Work Placement Agreement Form

What happens if I'm already working in the industry?

If you are currently employed in the industry relevant to your qualification, you may be able to complete your work placement assessment requirements within your own workplace and may not need to source for a suitable host organisation.

You will need to submit a Work Placement Agreement Form via MyUpskilled with the details of your employer and Workplace Supervisor. Please note that Upskilled must approve the Work Placement Agreement Form before you commence your work placement.

What clearance checks and documentation do I need for work placement?

Requirements vary from state-to-state. Please see below the required documentation and clearance checks needed by Upskilled and host organisations.

If you live in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, NT and WA, you will need:

Working with Children Check
National Police Check
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae

If you live in ACT and TAS, you will need:

Working with Vulnerable People Check
National Police Check
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae

Fees may apply when obtaining some of the clearance checks. It is a mandatory requirement that you apply for the relevant checks and submit your approved checks via MyUpskilled within the first 2 months of your course start date.

You will also need to supply your cover letter and curriculum vitae if you require assistance from Upskilled’s Work Placement Officer.

Upskilled reserves the right to transfer you to another course which work placement is not a mandatory requirement or cancel your enrolment if you have not obtained and submitted the required clearance checks.

How will I be assessed?

An Upskilled Assessor will liaise with your host organisation's Workplace Supervisor to review and validate your practical skill ability. For certain tasks, you will need to demonstrate your skills through video recordings and when necessary, through simulated activities which will be assessed by your Upskilled Assessor.

Please note that to successfully complete the work placement component of this qualification, you will need to be reasonably fit to undertake a variety of tasks and activities that may involve manual lifting, kneeling on the floor and other physical activities.

Payment Options

Pay Upfront & Save

Save over 25% when you pay upfront

Discounted Upfront Price: $2,640

Spread the cost - Payment Plans

**No Set-up Fee - Start for just $57 per week* (paid fortnightly or monthly)**

Speak to our Education Consultants to know more about our Flexible Payment Plans.

Call 1300 009 924 to find out more. *Terms & Conditions Apply.

RRP $3,600

Government funding

At both a state and federal level, government commitment to upskilling the Australian workforce has resulted in a comprehensive framework of funding schemes and incentive opportunities. As a result, many Upskilled participants are provided incentives by the Government to undertake training and/or find that their courses are heavily subsidised.

Government funding options for:
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)

Major schemes include:

Skilling South Australia

Career outcomes

Students who successfully complete this qualification may be able to pursue a rewarding career in the aged care (elderly care) sector.

Industry Insights

Employed: A total of 276,600 professionals are currently working in the aged care sector in Australia.
Future Growth: The industry is projected to experience a significant growth rate of 28% in the coming years, indicating a promising outlook for career opportunities.
Weekly Earnings: Professionals in the aged care sector earn an average weekly income of $1,382, providing financial stability and job security.
Full-Time Share: Approximately 32% of professionals in the aged care sector work on a full-time basis, ensuring a substantial portion of the workforce is dedicated to providing consistent care.
Female Share: The sector is predominantly female-oriented, with women making up 80% of the workforce, highlighting the significant contribution of women in this field.
Average Age: The average age of professionals in the aged care sector is 47, indicating a mix of experienced individuals and opportunities for newer entrants.

Source: Labour Market Insights

Education pathways

If you successfully complete the CHC33021 - Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), you may be able to pursue the following related qualifications:

CHC52021 - Diploma of Community Services (Case Management)

Alternatively, if you're interested in Individual Support, we also offer the following courses:

Educators

Upskilled's trainers in the CHC faculty have well-rounded skill sets and industry experience to help ensure that you're well-trained and prepared for any career challenge you experience in the community services field.

Approaching training with empathy, compassion and openness, you'll find that our trainers in the CHC faculty will help you develop the job-ready skills needed to prepare you for a career where you can make a difference everyday.

Below are some of the examples of support you may receive in the CHC faculty:

Assessment walkthroughs (recorded)
Assessment and Academic support sessions
Additional resources and professional development opportunities
Peer support and practical practise sessions via Zoom
Online recorded Training facilitated by your Trainer/Assessor

FAQs

What does an aged carer do?

Aged carers, also known as aged care workers, provide assistance and support to elderly individuals who may need help with daily tasks such as personal care, mobility, meal preparation, medication management, and companionship.

How much does an aged care carer earn in Australia?

The earnings of an aged care carer in Australia can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer. On average, aged care carers can earn between $20 to $30 per hour in Australia.

How do I start a career in aged care?

To start a career in aged care, you can begin by obtaining relevant qualifications such as a Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care) or a similar certification. You may also consider gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level positions in aged care facilities.

Can I work in aged care without a certificate?

While it's possible to work in aged care without a certificate, having relevant qualifications such as a Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care) is highly recommended by employers and may increase job opportunities and earning potential.

Does a carer need to be qualified?

While formal qualifications are not always mandatory, most employers in the aged care sector prefer candidates with relevant qualifications such as a Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care) or equivalent, as it demonstrates the necessary skills and knowledge required for the role.

How to study aged care in Australia?

To study aged care in Australia, you can enrol in accredited courses offered by various Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) like Upskilled or vocational training institutions. These courses typically include classroom-based learning, online learning, as well as practical training in aged care facilities.

What is the role of a support worker in aged care?

A support worker in aged care assists elderly individuals with various tasks such as personal care, household chores, mobility assistance, emotional support, and social activities, with the goal of enhancing their quality of life and promoting independence.

What is the difference between a senior carer and a support worker?

A senior carer typically has more experience and may have additional responsibilities such as supervising other care staff, coordinating care plans, and liaising with healthcare professionals, whereas a support worker primarily focuses on providing direct care and support to elderly individuals.

How much do aged care support workers make in Australia?

In Australia, aged care support workers typically earn an hourly wage averaging between $20 to $30, depending on variables such as experience, geographical location, and employer.

What skills do support workers need?

Support workers in aged care should possess a range of skills including empathy, communication, patience, flexibility, physical stamina, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Additionally, having basic medical knowledge and an understanding of aged care principles is beneficial.

How does the course cover cultural sensitivity and diversity in care?

The course extensively covers cultural sensitivity and diversity in care through the unit CHCDIV001 - Work with diverse people. This unit equips learners with the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from various social and cultural backgrounds, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities. Additionally, throughout the program, emphasis is placed on applying these skills in accordance with relevant legislation, standards, and industry codes of practice.

What is the ratio of theory to practical learning in this certificate?

The course offers a balanced blend of theory and practical learning. While the specific ratio may vary based on the unit, individual learning pace, and role-playing and interactive learning activities, students can expect a combination of theoretical knowledge acquisition through online sessions and hands-on practical training. Practical learning often includes simulated environments or real work placements to ensure learners develop the necessary skills and confidence to excel in the aged care sector.

Can I work internationally with this Australian qualification?

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) is a nationally recognized qualification within Australia. While this certification may not guarantee direct international recognition, the skills and knowledge acquired through this program can be transferable and valuable in various international contexts. However, it's advisable to research and verify specific international recognition requirements in the desired work location.

What is the assessment schedule like for this program?

Assessments include reports, portfolios, role-playing scenarios, projects with research tasks, and written/oral questions to apply theory into practice. These evaluations measure your understanding and practical application of course material across diverse scenarios. Detailed assessment schedules and criteria will be shared by your guide as you progress through the program.

Can I choose my own work placement location?

Work placements are undertaken at a nominated host organisation approved by Upskilled. Specific requirements exist for this course. For details, refer to the Work Placement section on the course page or contact us for more information.

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)