Study to be an Aged-Care Worker in Australia
With nearly 1 in 4 Australians expected to be over the age of 65 within the next 30 years, it's not a surprise that aged care is a growing industry.
Enhancing the day-to-day life of an elderly person is a very rewarding career in any country. This may involve working in a residential care facility (also known as an aged-care centre or nursing home), or in a home-care environment (the person's house). This allows for part-time or full-time employment. Aged-care workers can specialise in various needs, including caring for elderly people with dementia.
According to seek.com.au, in 2026 the average aged-care worker is earning $70,000/year. There were 7,228 jobs advertised on seek.com.au in April, 2026. Job growth is projected to increase by 28% over the next 5 years.
Can I get skilled migration through aged care? Be careful about incorrect information on getting skilled migration through the Certificate III in Individual Support. Read more on this situation
What aged-care courses can make me eligible for a student visa (subclass 500)?
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging) is the entry-level qualification to be an aged-care worker in Australia. The course is generally 9 to 12 months long.
Depending on the college & length of the course, tuition ranges from approximately $8,000 to $10,000.
In the course you will learn topics including:
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providing individualised support
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working with diverse people
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working legally and ethically
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safe work practices
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empowering people
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supporting people living with dementia
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infection prevention and control policies
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first-aid
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palliative-care approach services
To be eligible for the course, international students may be required to have:
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a National Police Clearance certificate
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evidence of Covid 19 vaccinations
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a medical clearance may also be requested
Certificate IV in Ageing Support
The next level of study is the Certificate IV in Aging Support, which can open up doors as an aged-care worker, client care advisor, community-care worker, coordinator, care-services team leader, or aged-care activity worker.
The course is generally 6 to 9 months long. The cost of tuition will vary from $6,000-$10,000, depending on the duration and education provider.
In the course, you will learn topics including:
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empowering older people
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intervening for older people at risk
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supporting people who live with dementia
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planning and implementing individual services
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fostering relationship families and carers
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working with diversity
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legal and ethical compliance
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using a palliative approach in delivering services
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developing networks
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creating collaborative partnerships
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understanding healthy body systems
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facilitating safe work practices
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assisting clients with their medication
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strategies to prevent falls
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working with people who have mental health issues
Aged Care Courses in Australia: Risks, Sponsorship & PR Pathways for International Students
In May 2023, the Australian Government introduced the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement (ACILA) to address workforce shortages in the aged care sector. This agreement allows employers to sponsor overseas workers for specific aged care roles in Australia.
Eligible Jobs Under ACILA
The following occupations are currently eligible for sponsorship under ACILA:
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Nursing Support Worker (ANZSCO 423312)
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Personal Care Assistant (ANZSCO 423313)
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Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111)
Thinking of Studying Aged Care in Australia? Read This First.
Many international students are enrolling in aged care and disability courses in Australia, hoping these qualifications will lead to employer sponsorship and permanent residency. However, it’s important to understand the risks before making a study decision.
As more students choose this pathway, competition for sponsorship is increasing—making it harder to secure employment that leads to permanent residency in Australia.
Visa Data & Reality Check
According to the Australian newspaper, as of Jan 5, 2024 only 155 people had been granted a visa through this program.
According to theweeklysource.com.au, By October 2025, this number increased to approximately 2,400 visas. About 2,150 of these visas were granted to applicants already in Australia. While numbers are growing, they remain low compared to the high number of international students enrolling in aged care courses
Who Is More Likely to Get Sponsored in Aged Care?
In many cases, employers prefer candidates with higher qualifications and relevant experience. Overseas-trained nurses are often prioritised for sponsorship over newly qualified students. Of course, it makes sense!
This means completing an aged care course in Australia does not guarantee sponsorship or permanent residency.
Unless centres participate in the agreement, this sponsorship pathway is not available to its employees. Getting sponsored requires employees to be extremely good at their job. Aged care work is demanding; you have to be a very special person to be good at it.
Michal Sestak
Registered Migration Agent (MARN 0208424)
Important Advice if You Plan to Change Your Course
If you’re an international student in Australia thinking about switching courses, it’s important to make an informed decision. Choosing the wrong course or provider can impact your student visa, education quality, and future migration pathway to permanent residency (PR).
1. Be Careful When Changing Courses (Transferring) as an International Student
Changing courses in Australia isn’t just an academic decision—it can directly affect your student visa conditions.
Before switching, ask yourself:
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Does this course align with my long-term career goals?
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Will this impact my visa or future migration opportunities?
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Is the course level appropriate for my background?
Making the wrong move could lead to visa complications or refusals from the Department of Home Affairs.
Learn more about Transferring while a student visa here
2. Choose a High-Quality Education Provider in Australia
Due to increased demand, some colleges have rapidly introduced new courses—especially in high-demand fields like trade and vocational education.
Not all providers offer the same level of quality.
When selecting a college, make sure to:
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Check if the provider is CRICOS-registered
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Research student reviews and outcomes
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Confirm industry recognition of the qualification
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Avoid low-quality providers offering “quick” pathways - especially online and with no work placement included
Choosing the right provider protects both your education investment and your migration prospects.
3. Align Your Studies With Your Migration Goals
If your goal is to stay in Australia after studying, your course selection plays a major role in your migration pathway.
Australia’s skilled migration system is complex and frequently updated, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
We strongly recommend speaking with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer before making any decisions.
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Get personalised advice
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Understand visa risks
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Plan your pathway to PR in Australia
If you don’t already have a trusted expert, we can connect you with one.