Thinking About a Career in Aged or Disability Care? Here's Where to Start

Thinking About a Career in Aged or Disability Care? Here's Where to Start

The aged and disability care sector is one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide. As populations age and the need for compassionate, trained caregivers increases, more people are exploring this field as a stable, meaningful, and high-demand career. Whether you're looking for a job with impact or considering a career change, aged or disability care can be a great place to begin.

Why Choose Aged or Disability Care?

There are many reasons individuals are drawn to this field—beyond just job security.

  • High Demand: According to the World Health Organization, the global population over age 60 will double by 2050. Countries like Australia, the U.S., and Canada are experiencing major shortages of care workers.
  • Purpose-Driven Work: Care professionals support people with daily activities, companionship, and dignity—making a real difference in lives.
  • Flexible Career Paths: You can work in aged care facilities, disability support homes, hospitals, or even in private home care settings.
  • Career Progression: Entry-level roles can lead to nursing, case management, or care coordination with experience and further training.

What Does a Care Worker Do?

The exact responsibilities depend on your workplace and specialization, but typical duties include:

  • Assisting with personal care such as bathing, dressing, and eating
  • Helping with mobility and transfers
  • Administering medication (with proper certification)
  • Providing emotional and social support
  • Reporting changes in client condition to supervisors or healthcare teams

Aged care workers often support elderly clients, while disability support workers help individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities live more independently.

What Qualifications Do You Need?

You don’t need prior experience or a medical background to start in this field—just the right training.

Certificate III in Individual Support (Australia)

This is the standard entry-level qualification in Australia, recognized nationwide. It typically takes 10 to 24 weeks to complete and includes both classroom learning and workplace placements.

There are three streams:

  • Ageing
  • Disability
  • Ageing & Disability (combined)

This certificate is a great option if you're looking to enter the workforce quickly with practical skills and national recognition.

Certified Nursing Assistant (U.S.)

In the U.S., Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs typically take 4–12 weeks and require passing a state licensing exam. CNAs work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings.

Personal Support Worker (Canada)

Canada offers PSW (Personal Support Worker) certification programs that last from 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the province.

Where to Study or Train?

Care training is offered through:

  • Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) and private colleges
  • Community colleges and vocational institutes
  • Government-subsidized programs, especially for high-demand sectors

Look for institutions that:

  • Include mandatory workplace training hours
  • Are nationally or regionally accredited
  • Prepare you for certification exams

Many training centers offer part-time, evening, or online options to support learners balancing work and family responsibilities.

Who Is This Career For?

This field is ideal for individuals who:

  • Enjoy helping others
  • Are patient, empathetic, and good communicators
  • Want meaningful work with strong job security
  • May be re-entering the workforce or changing careers

There’s no upper age limit—many students in care programs are in their 30s, 40s, or older. Employers often value life experience just as much as formal education.

Career Outcomes and Job Market Insights

The job market for aged and disability care is thriving:

  • Australia: According to Jobs & Skills Australia, over 250,000 additional care workers will be needed by 2050.
  • United States: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22% job growth for personal care aides between 2022 and 2032.
  • Canada: The demand for PSWs is expected to increase by 25% over the next decade, especially in Ontario and British Columbia.

Starting salaries vary by region, but many entry-level roles offer $20–30/hour, with opportunities to earn more as you gain qualifications and experience.

How to Get Started

Here’s a step-by-step plan:

  1. Explore Courses in Your Region – Search for nationally recognized programs and compare options.
  2. Check Entry Requirements – Most courses require only basic English and math skills, plus a police or background check.
  3. Apply and Enroll – Many programs have monthly or rolling intakes.
  4. Complete the Course – Learn both theory and practical skills.
  5. Start Working – Most graduates find jobs within weeks, especially in aged care facilities, NDIS roles (Australia), or long-term care homes.

Final Thoughts

If you're thinking about a career in aged or disability care, now is an ideal time to take the first step. With strong job growth, low entry barriers, and the opportunity to genuinely improve lives, this path is both rewarding and future-proof.

Whether you’re seeking a fast-track job, a stable profession, or simply want to make a difference, the care sector is ready for you. Explore your training options, and start building a career that truly matters.