Australia's community services sector is evolving rapidly, responding to the growing needs of our ageing population. Recent reforms and improvements have been introduced to enhance the quality of care in aged care, address workforce shortages, and support the disability services sector. Upskilled is at the forefront of these changes, offering updated and innovative courses to meet the demands of the industry.
Whether you’re a current worker or an aspiring professional in this sector, here are some of the biggest changes to take note of.
Improving the Aged Care Sector
The aged care sector in Australia is undergoing a series of significant reforms aimed at improving the quality of care for older individuals and making aged care more equitable, sustainable, and trustworthy.
Increased Care Minutes
One of the key changes that have been introduced is an increase in mandatory residential aged care minutes, which have been raised to 200 minutes starting from October 1, 2023. “Care minutes” refer to the care time provided by registered nurses, enrolled nurses, personal care workers, and nursing assistants. This increase will include allocating 40 minutes from a registered nurse (RN) to enhance the care of older individuals within these facilities.
Addressing the Aged Care Workforce Shortage
One of the greatest challenges currently faced by our nation’s aged care sector is the crippling shortfall in skilled workers. Recent research has revealed a looming shortage of 16,000 nurses and 25,000 allied health workers for 2023 – a concerning gap in light of escalating demand for such services as our country’s population continues to age. Fortunately, the Albanese government has made billion-dollar investments to financially support the sector, which are expected to result in the addition of more than aged care 10,000 workers by the coming year.
This workforce shortage not only presents a challenge, however, but also an opportunity. As our government's proactive measures lead to the recruitment of thousands of new workers, it opens doors to numerous job opportunities for those interested in the aged care sector. Aspiring professionals will find no better time than now to make a meaningful impact in the lives of older Australians, while also enjoying job security and competitive wages.
The Disability Services and Inclusion Bill 2023
On top of their efforts to help strengthen aged care (and its vast opportunities for potential talent), the Australian government is also taking significant steps to enhance its support for the disability services sector. The Disability Services and Inclusion Bill 2023 seeks to provide the field with more effective ways of funding, maintaining, and expanding existing services and supports; as well as providing more robust, up-to-date safeguards.
Additionally, the bill will require services to have a mandatory code of conduct and certification for services provided outside of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), helping ensure a high standard of care and support for individuals with disabilities.
Upskilleds new and refreshed courses
CHC33201 - Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Upskilled is thrilled to unveil the
CHC33201 - Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability), a groundbreaking qualification that consolidates the expertise from previous courses in ageing, home and community support, and disability. This program goes beyond traditional boundaries, providing care workers with versatile skills to assist clients with diverse needs, navigate essential services, and empower clients towards independence. With a comprehensive 120 hours of work placement, this nationally accredited course not only opens doors to further studies but also propels you into a fulfilling career in ageing or disability support.
Upskilled is equally excited to announce updates to existing courses, aligning with the latest industry standards and demands:
1. Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
This refreshed course, now with an updated code and units, offers a comprehensive exploration of disability support. Learners will gain the latest skills and knowledge needed to assist individuals with disabilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the dynamic challenges of this rewarding field.
2. Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)
With an updated code and units, this course reflects the latest advancements in ageing support. Aspiring professionals will acquire the essential skills to provide quality care to the elderly, catering to their unique needs and contributing to the well-being of this growing demographic.
3. Diploma of Community Services (Case Management)
Upskilled has reinvigorated the Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) with revised course codes and units to meet the evolving landscape of community services. This program delves into the intricacies of case management, equipping learners with the skills necessary to make a positive impact on individuals and communities in need.
As the community services sector undergoes transformation, these refreshed courses ensure that Upskilled students are equipped with the latest knowledge, skills, and qualifications, setting them on a path to success in their chosen fields. Whether you're embarking on a new journey with our groundbreaking CHC33201 or enhancing your expertise with our updated courses, Upskilled remains committed to empowering individuals to shape a brighter future in community services. Enquire with us today and be part of this transformative journey.
Vanessa Ciabatti
Vanessa is a Marketing Specialist working at Upskilled. Beyond the professional world of marketing, she can be found sipping a Chatime, playing or watching soccer and spending time with her wonderfully loud Italian family.