Solution to Tasmania’s Aged Care worker shortage

Published on 29 January 2024

In a bid to help Tasmania’s critical healthcare worker shortage, a new program in Northern Tasmania and Launceston will help upskill migrants into Aged Care.

Aged Care Head Start, delivered by Work & Training (Part of the IntoWork Group) in partnership with Migrant Resource Centre North, is a 12-week program designed to directly support the increase of newly-arrived migrant people with low levels of English to gain employment in the Aged Care sector.

The program will assist participants by developing the necessary communication skills and knowledge through in-depth training sessions which focus on foundation skills including language IT & communication skills, and hands-on skills such as manual handling, First Aid, following instructions and bed making skills. The program also gives participants an introduction to anatomy and physiology, and legal and ethical aspects in Aged Care.

Work & Training CEO Leanne Wallace said the program is essential to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the sector, while also providing individuals with additional support to access employment opportunities, “Many people with low levels of English language face significant barriers to education, employment and learning. These barriers may include language, a lack of familiarity with the Australian education and employment systems, and a limited understanding of the specific skills required for employment in Aged Care,” she said. “Aged Care Head Start removes those barriers migrants often face as it provides tailored training and support to all participants. English language classes, vocational training and mentoring support will ensure these participants have the skills and knowledge required for successful employment in the sector. The course will empower them to be able to access employment opportunities that were previously not available to them.”

Work & Training’s partnership with Migrant Resource Centre North will also enable cultural and bilingual support for participants from a migrant background to achieve success. Migrant Resource Centre North CEO Mark Deverell said programs that offer employment opportunities for migrants were essential to meet emerging workforce demands, “These programs play a crucial role in empowering migrants to secure meaningful employment and contribute to their communities. MRC recently delivered a similar program for the disability sector, which resulted in 77 per cent employment outcomes for participants so we’re excited to see the outcomes of Aged Care Head Start. By empowering migrants to secure meaningful employment, we can create a diverse and inclusive workforce that benefits everyone,” he said.

Aged Care Head Start is delivered by Work & Training in partnership with Migrant Resource Centre North, the Jobs Hub and Workforce Australia providers and is funded by Skills Tasmania through the Training and Work Pathways Program.

For more information about the program, visit https://www.workandtraining.com.au/ or call 03 6214 5177