News: Aged Care Workers to Receive Pay Rise

Australia’s aged care workforce is receiving a major boost, with the federal government implementing significant wage increases aimed at strengthening the sector and attracting new talent. In a landmark decision, aged care workers—including personal care assistants, enrolled nurses, and registered nurses—will benefit from pay rises of up to 29%.

The wage uplift follows recommendations from the Fair Work Commission and is part of the government’s broader strategy to address workforce shortages, improve quality of care, and make aged care careers more attractive to Australians.

What’s Changing for Aged Care Workers?

In 2023 and 2024, the government committed more than $11.3 billion over four years to fund wage increases across the aged care sector. The staged rollout includes:

• A 15% interim pay rise for direct care workers from July 2023
• An additional 10–14% pay rise in 2024, depending on the classification of the worker
• New enterprise agreements supported by government funding to ensure ongoing wage fairness

This represents one of the largest-ever investments in aged care workforce development, recognising the critical role of aged care professionals in supporting older Australians.

Why the Pay Rise Matters

The Aged Care Workforce Reform responds to long-standing issues of low pay, burnout, and retention challenges in the sector. With Australia’s population ageing rapidly—projected to reach 25% aged over 65 by 2056—the demand for skilled care workers continues to grow.

The government estimates that over 65,000 additional aged care workers will be needed by 2030 to meet demand. By improving pay and conditions, policymakers hope to attract more workers into a sector that offers job security, meaningful work, and long-term career growth.

Who Benefits?

The pay increases apply to a broad range of roles in both residential and home care settings, including:

• Personal Care Workers
• Assistants in Nursing (AINs)
• Enrolled Nurses and Registered Nurses
• Recreational and lifestyle support workers

This also opens new opportunities for school leavers, career changers, and job seekers looking to enter a stable, purpose-driven industry.

How to Start a Career in Aged Care

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to formalise your skills, the right qualification can set you on a rewarding path in aged care. Popular entry-level options include:

• Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care)
• Certificate IV in Ageing Support
• Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nursing)c

Online study options allow you to upskill flexibly while gaining practical placements to build real-world experience.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Train

With government investment, growing demand, and improved working conditions, aged care is a future-focused career path. You’ll not only enjoy better pay, but also make a meaningful difference in the lives of older Australians every day.

To learn more about how aged care roles are evolving, visit the official Aged Care section of the Department of Health and Aged Care.